Half Muslims, Half Christians Will Never Work in Nigeria – US Lawmaker

Global attention continues to focus on Nigeria as insecurity, displacement, and religious tension shape international discussions and policy decisions. The country’s challenges have drawn responses from foreign lawmakers, advocacy groups, and diplomatic institutions.

On Tuesday, December 10, 2025, at about 11:30 a.m., in Washington, D.C., United States Congressman Riley M. Moore raised concerns about Nigeria’s stability while addressing reporters and policy analysts following a series of meetings linked to his recent visit to the country.

His remarks followed weeks of engagement with Nigerian officials, community leaders, and displaced persons affected by violence across several regions.

Background to US Congressional Interest in Nigeria

Nigeria’s security situation has remained a topic of concern in Washington due to recurring attacks, kidnappings, and displacement of civilians. Lawmakers have repeatedly questioned whether existing strategies adequately protect vulnerable communities.

In October 2025, Congressman Riley Moore co-sponsored a resolution in the US House of Representatives condemning attacks on religious communities worldwide, with Nigeria receiving specific attention. The motion called for stronger diplomatic engagement and accountability.

According to Moore, persistent violence in parts of the Middle Belt and North-East has weakened trust between communities and strained national unity. He argued that governance systems must move beyond symbolically balance toward measurable protection of lives. Read also Igbo Community Leaders Visit Nnamdi Kanu in Sokoto Prison

Half Muslims, Half Christians Will Never Work in Nigeria

During his briefing, Moore stated that political arrangements based purely on religious balance have failed to resolve Nigeria’s deep-rooted security and governance problems. He emphasized that representation alone cannot replace effective law enforcement and justice.

He stressed that communities continue to suffer regardless of religious identity, while perpetrators often act without consequences. According to him, this pattern encourages further violence and displacement.

Moore urged Nigerian authorities to prioritize accountability, intelligence-driven security operations, and protection of rural communities over symbolic power-sharing formulas.

Visits to Affected Communities and Eyewitness Accounts

Earlier in December 2025, Moore visited parts of Benue State during a fact-finding mission. The visit included stops at internally displaced persons camps where residents shared firsthand accounts of attacks on their villages.

A farmer from Guma Local Government Area explained that armed attackers forced families to flee at night, leaving behind farms and homes. Another resident said many villages remain abandoned due to fear of renewed attacks.

Community leaders told the delegation that insecurity has disrupted education, farming, and local trade, pushing young people into prolonged dependence on aid.

Villagers Describe Life After Displacement

Several villagers interviewed described daily struggles in displacement camps. Many rely on food donations, while access to healthcare remains limited. Women and children, they said, bear the heaviest burden.

Local volunteers reported that some displaced families have lived in temporary shelters for years without clear resettlement plans. They warned that prolonged displacement increases poverty and social tension.

These accounts formed part of the report Moore said he would submit to US authorities for policy consideration.

Nigerian Government Response

Nigerian officials have consistently rejected claims that violence in the country targets one religious group. Authorities maintain that criminal banditry and terrorism affect all communities and are not state-sponsored.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs described foreign allegations as misleading and emphasized ongoing military operations against armed groups across multiple states.

Government representatives also highlighted cooperation with international partners on intelligence sharing and counterterrorism training.

Recent Incidents That Fuel Global Concern

Security incidents continue to shape global perception of Nigeria. On Sunday, January 18, 2026, around 7:00 a.m., gunmen abducted worshippers during church services in parts of Kaduna State, according to local officials.

The attack triggered renewed calls for stronger security presence in rural communities and faster emergency response mechanisms.

Such incidents are often cited in international policy debates and congressional hearings.

Analysis of the Broader Implications

Analysts note that statements from foreign lawmakers reflect broader concerns about governance, accountability, and civilian protection in fragile regions. While opinions differ on causes, most agree that insecurity threatens Nigeria’s development.

Experts argue that lasting stability requires coordinated security reforms, justice for victims, and economic recovery in affected areas.

Diplomatic pressure, they say, may influence reforms but cannot replace domestic political will.

Impact on US–Nigeria Relations

The debate has implications for bilateral relations between Nigeria and the United States. Policy decisions such as aid allocation, military cooperation, and diplomatic engagement often depend on human rights assessments.

US officials have indicated that cooperation will continue, but with increased focus on civilian protection and accountability.

Both countries remain engaged in discussions aimed at countering terrorism and regional instability.

Conclusion

Nigeria’s security challenges continue to attract international scrutiny as violence disrupts lives and livelihoods. Statements by US lawmakers, including Riley Moore, reflect growing concern over the effectiveness of existing approaches.

As diplomatic talks progress, attention remains on how Nigerian authorities will address insecurity, protect communities, and rebuild trust across affected regions.

for more security updates in Nigeria today Visit Security updates Nigeria and Legit.ng