U.S. Congressman Riley Moore has held talks with Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, in the United States, focusing on insecurity in Nigeria’s North-Central region and allegations of persecution against Christian communities.
Moore disclosed details of the meeting in a post on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Tuesday, describing the engagement as cordial, productive, and forward-looking.
“It was an honor to meet with the Governor of Plateau State in Nigeria, Caleb Mutfwang,” Moore wrote. “We had a meaningful and productive conversation about deepening the ties between our two countries.”
According to the congressman, discussions centred on the security challenges confronting Plateau State and other parts of Northern Nigeria, alongside broader issues of economic cooperation and diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the United States.
Moore said he remains committed to working with the Nigerian government to address insecurity and economic concerns, with particular attention to what he described as the persecution of Christian communities.
“I remain committed to working with the Nigerian government in coordination and cooperation to address these security and economic challenges, especially the persecution our Christian brothers and sisters face,” he stated.
He also commended Governor Mutfwang for efforts aimed at protecting vulnerable groups in the region, adding, “God bless you, Governor, for what you do to protect Christians and other vulnerable populations in the Middle Belt.”
Plateau State, located in Nigeria’s North-Central zone, has in recent years experienced repeated attacks and violent clashes, particularly between farming communities and herders. The unrest has led to significant loss of lives, mass displacement, and destruction of property, attracting national and international concern.
Governor Mutfwang, who assumed office in 2023, has consistently described the insecurity in Plateau as a complex challenge that requires a coordinated response involving the federal government, security agencies, community leaders, and international partners.
Moore, a Republican lawmaker representing West Virginia, has been outspoken on issues of religious freedom and allegations of targeted violence against Christians in Nigeria. His meeting with the Plateau governor comes amid increased scrutiny by U.S. authorities over Nigeria’s response to sectarian violence and the protection of vulnerable populations, particularly Christian communities.
