Visiting US lawmaker say rescue of 100 children a positive security step forward

A member of the United States House of Representatives, who are on a visit to gather first hand information on security situation in the country, Riley Moore, has said that the rescue of 100 Catholic schoolchildren is a positive demonstration of Nigeria’s improved response to insecurity.

He shared this on Monday on his X page. Moore, who gave the update after a meeting with National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu during a US Congressional visit to Nigeria, said the successful rescue shows growing commitment from the government in dealing with security challenges.

He stated on his X page that several concrete steps were discussed with Nigerian officials, and if fully carried out, they would boost safety across the country, weaken terrorist groups in the northeast and help stop the killing of Christians, especially in the Middle Belt.

He said, “There were concrete steps and actions discussed at length, that if fully executed, I believe will enhance security across the country for all Nigerians, disrupt and destroy terrorist organizations in the northeast and stop the killing of Christians (a specific concern for @POTUS and myself) – particularly in the Middle Belt of the country.”

Moore thanked President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian government for the rescue operation, describing it as a positive sign of progress. He wrote, “I want to thank the Nigerian government and @officialABAT for rescuing the 100 innocent and precious Catholic school children.

“This is a positive demonstration of the government’s increasing response to the security situation and shows commitment to the emergency declaration laid out by President Tinubu.”

The US lawmaker added that Washington’s concerns were received with urgency and expressed confidence that both countries are moving towards a stronger and cooperative security partnership. He said that the Nigeria US joint task force already established is an example of this progress.

He said, “The US’ sense of urgency on our concerns was positively received. I feel that a cooperative security framework is within sight. The now established joint task force between Nigeria and the US is a great example.”

Moore said there is openness from the Nigerian government to work with the United States in tackling security challenges, but stressed that this must translate into concrete action. While acknowledging more work ahead, he expressed optimism about the next steps and the ongoing dialogue between both countries.

He concluded, “There is much work still to be done, but things are moving in the right direction. I look forward to the next steps with Nigerian government and the continued open dialogue. Peace be with you all. God bless the great people of Nigeria.”