US Congressman, Riley Moore, has praised the recent airstrikes carried out in North West Nigeria, describing them as a firm step toward safeguarding Christian communities and addressing the country’s worsening security challenges.
In a post shared on Friday via his X handle, Moore said the strikes, which were carried out in collaboration with the Nigerian government, represent “just the first step to ending the slaughter of Christians and the security crisis affecting all Nigerians.”
“President Trump has been clear that the killing of Christians in Nigeria must end.
“As I stated at the outset: Do not test President Trump‘s resolve in this matter,” the lawmaker said.
His comments followed reports that US forces, acting on the directive of President Donald Trump, launched airstrikes against ISIS-linked terrorist elements operating in North West Nigeria. Separately, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed that the operation was conducted with Nigeria’s cooperation.
“The President was clear last month: the killing of innocent Christians in Nigeria (and elsewhere) must end. The Department of War is always ready…Grateful for Nigerian government support & cooperation,” Hegseth wrote.
Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs later confirmed that the airstrikes formed part of structured security collaboration with international partners aimed at combating terrorism and violent extremism.
Moore recently concluded a fact-finding visit to Nigeria to probe alleged attacks on Christian communities, an experience he described as deeply troubling.
Leading a five-member congressional delegation, he met with internally displaced persons, survivors of terror attacks, Christian leaders, and traditional rulers in Benue State.
The delegation also held discussions with the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi.
Speaking during an interview on Fox News, Moore recounted disturbing testimonies, including that of a woman who lost five children while pregnant, and another who lost her husband, two daughters, and her unborn child. He described the violence as a deliberate targeting of Christians.
“This is one of the most dangerous states in Nigeria. They are trying to erase Christians in Benue and across Nigeria from their ancestral homeland,” he said.
Moore further disclosed that President Trump has tasked him and House Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole with submitting a report and recommendations by the end of the month, following Nigeria’s designation as a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged killings of Christians.