Washington, D.C. – United States Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth hosted Nigeria’s National Security Advisor, Major General (retd.) Nuhu Ribadu, alongside other senior Nigerian officials, in Washington this week to discuss reports of persecution against Christian communities in Nigeria.
The high-level meeting focused on the security challenges facing religious minorities in the country, with both sides exploring avenues for collaboration on intelligence sharing, protection strategies, and policy interventions.
In a statement following the meeting, Hegseth reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to supporting Nigeria in addressing security threats while safeguarding religious freedoms. The discussions come amid growing international concern over targeted attacks against Christian communities in several Nigerian states.
Ribadu briefed US officials on Nigeria’s ongoing security initiatives and outlined the government’s strategies to curb insurgency, communal violence, and religiously-motivated attacks. The delegation also explored potential partnerships aimed at enhancing regional security and protecting vulnerable populations.
The meeting underscores the increasing attention of global actors on Nigeria’s internal security situation and the role of international cooperation in addressing both humanitarian and strategic challenges.
