‘Things moving in right direction: US delegation speaks on meeting with Ribadu

A visiting United States Congressional delegation has spoken about the meeting held with the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, in Abuja.

The delegation, while acknowledging that much work remains to be done, said the Nigerian government has shown openness and willingness to work closely with Washington on tackling critical security issues.

The officials, in a statement shared on X by U.S. lawmaker Riley Moore, described the engagement with Ribadu as “productive and positive,” noting that both sides outlined practical steps aimed at strengthening national security, dismantling terrorist networks in the northeast, and addressing targeted killings in the Middle Belt.

Moore expressed confidence that Nigeria’s security situation will improve significantly if the concrete actions discussed with Ribadu are fully executed.

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“There were concrete steps and actions discussed at length, that if fully executed, I believe will enhance security across the country for all Nigerians, disrupt and destroy terrorist organizations in the northeast and stop the killing of Christians (a specific concern for President Donald Trump and myself) – particularly in the Middle Belt of the country,” the lawmaker representing West Virginia stated.

Moore, who was part of the delegation, further lauded the Nigerian government and President Bola Tinubu for the rescue of 100 schoolchildren in Niger State, calling it a significant indication of the administration’s increasing responsiveness to security emergencies and its commitment to Tinubu’s declared state of emergency on security.

He added: “The US’ sense of urgency on our concerns was positively received. I feel that a cooperative security framework is within sight. The now established joint task force between Nigeria and the US is a great example.

“It is clear that there is an openness and willingness on the part of the Nigerian government to work with the United States to tackle these critical issues. Now, that openness has to translate to concrete action.

“There is much work still to be done, but things are moving in the right direction. I look forward to the next steps with Nigerian government and the continued open dialogue.

“Peace be with you all. God bless the great people of Nigeria.”

The Star