United States Senator Riley Moore has refuted claims suggesting that the US government intends to advocate for the division of Nigeria. Addressing the controversy in a detailed statement on Saturday, Moore said reports linking his recent visit to such a plan are unfounded and misrepresent the nature of his engagements in the country.
Moore, who was part of a delegation that met with senior Nigerian officials during his trip, clarified that at no point did discussions about the division of Nigeria arise in any substantive manner. “The idea of dividing the country has not come up in any serious way,” he said, emphasising that his interactions focused on issues of mutual concern including security cooperation and efforts to curb violent extremism.
The lawmaker said he is particularly concerned about the impact of instability on vulnerable communities, especially Christians in northern and central regions of Nigeria. He warned that actions perceived as encouraging separatist movements could inadvertently empower terrorist groups and deepen insecurity, making life more dangerous for ordinary Nigerians.
“A destabilised Nigeria would embolden terrorists and make Christians less safe in Nigeria and across the continent,” Moore said, stressing his commitment to advocating for the protection of lives and the welfare of all Nigerians affected by insurgency and criminal violence.
Moore’s visit coincides with the recent signing of a security cooperation agreement between the US and Nigeria, aimed at strengthening joint efforts to confront terrorism and organised crime. He described the agreement as a significant step toward enhancing bilateral ties and addressing shared security challenges.
Highlighting the importance of the partnership, Moore reiterated that the US supports Nigeria’s sovereignty and unity, and will continue to work collaboratively with Nigerian authorities to promote peace, stability and prosperity across the country.
