U.S. Rep. Riley M. Moore has rejected claims that the United States supports any effort to break up Nigeria, warning that separatist agendas would worsen insecurity and further endanger Christian communities.
Moore made the remarks in a statement posted on his verified X account after a visit to Nigeria, where he met with government officials, church leaders, humanitarian groups and internally displaced people.
“I have traveled to Nigeria and engaged in multiple high-level meetings with Nigerian officials, the Church, aid groups across the country and IDPs, to better understand the persecution of Christians in Nigeria,” Moore said.
He said the idea of dividing Nigeria did not arise during his discussions and cautioned against encouraging separatist movements.
“In my discussions, the idea of dividing the country has not come up in any serious way,” he said. “Efforts to embolden separatists hurt Christians in Nigeria, especially in the North and Middle Belt.”
Moore warned that weakening Nigeria’s unity would have broader regional consequences.
“A destabilized Nigeria would embolden terrorists and make Christians less safe in Nigeria and across the continent,” he said.
The lawmaker said he would continue to advocate for victims of terrorism and insecurity across the country.
“I remain committed to working to save the lives of our brothers and sisters in Christ and all Nigerians suffering from instability wrought by terrorists,” he said.
Moore also linked his comments to ongoing U.S.-Nigeria security cooperation, describing a recently signed agreement between both countries as an important step toward addressing violence and strengthening bilateral ties.
“The U.S. and Nigeria have just entered into a security cooperation agreement, which is an important step in tackling the violence in Nigeria and deepening the relationship between our nations,” he said.
