US Defence Chief urges Nigeria to take urgent action as Defence Secretary discusses rising attacks against Christians with Nigerian officials

According to a Pentagon statement released on Friday, the US Urges Nigeria to take decisive action to halt the escalating violence against Christians.

Also read: Donald Trump warns of Christian killings in Nigeria

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth conveyed the message during a meeting with Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, on Thursday.

Hegseth highlighted his concern over the rising attacks, describing the situation as “horrific” and emphasising the need for both urgent and enduring measures to protect vulnerable communities.

Writing on his X handle, he said, “Under @POTUS leadership, DOW is working aggressively with Nigeria to end the persecution of Christians by jihadist terrorists.”

Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell confirmed that Hegseth urged closer cooperation between Washington and Abuja to “deter and degrade terrorists that threaten the United States.”

The talks followed recent remarks by former US President Donald Trump, who warned that Christianity in Nigeria faces an “existential threat” and suggested that the United States could deploy military forces if the federal government failed to act.

US Congressman Riley Moore also met with the Nigerian delegation in Washington, DC, describing the discussions as “frank, honest, and productive.” Key topics included counterterrorism collaboration, security assistance, and safeguarding at-risk communities.

The Nigerian delegation was composed of senior government and security officials, including Bianca Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs; Kayode Egbetokun, Inspector General of Police; Chief Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, Attorney General of the Federation; General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, Chief of Defence Staff; and Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Undiendeye, Chief of Defence Intelligence, among others.

Also read: Nigeria Rejects Trump Claim on Christian killings

The meeting underscores heightened US concern over the safety of Christians in Nigeria and signals potential steps towards enhanced bilateral security cooperation.