A United States lawmaker has said that efforts to destabilise Nigeria would empower terrorists and make the country less safe, and noted recent security cooperation between the United States and Nigeria, officials reported.
Nigeria has faced sustained insecurity from extremist groups such as Boko Haram, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and affiliated armed groups across parts of the country.
The federal government and international partners, including the United States, have engaged in collaborative security efforts to tackle terrorism and violent extremism.
The lawmaker, Riley Moore, conducted a fact-finding visit to Nigeria and engaged with government officials, church leaders, aid organisations and internally displaced persons to understand security challenges, particularly those affecting vulnerable populations.
Moore said discussions during his visit did not indicate serious consideration of dividing Nigeria, and he cautioned that efforts to support separatist agendas in the country could unintentionally assist terrorist groups.
“A destabilised Nigeria would embolden terrorists and make Christians less safe in Nigeria and across the continent,” he said in a statement on his official social media account.
The lawmaker highlighted recent security cooperation between the United States and Nigeria, including a security cooperation agreement, as an important step in addressing violence and strengthening bilateral relations.
Moore said he remains committed to supporting Nigerians affected by terrorism and insecurity, emphasising concern for all citizens facing instability across the country.
Statements by the lawmaker underscore the interconnected nature of national stability and counter-terrorism efforts and reflect ongoing dialogue between Nigerian and US officials on security cooperation.
Collaborative frameworks may influence international support and operational coordination aimed at reducing the influence and capacity of extremist organisations.
The emphasis on security cooperation aligns with broader government efforts in Nigeria to partner with regional and international actors to address terrorism and protect communities
