Hussaini Ibrahim 
KANO, Nigeria – Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, meets United States Secretary of Defence, Pete Hegseth, in Washington to address allegations of targeted killings of Christians in Nigeria, following intensified commentary in US political circles.
The meeting, announced in a statement signed by Hegseth on Friday, follows accusations by former US President Donald Trump, who alleged widespread attacks on Christian communities and threatened to deploy American troops to Nigeria.
Hegseth confirms that discussions focused on what he describes as “horrific violence against Christians”, adding that the US is working with Nigeria to strengthen responses to extremist threats.
The Nigerian delegation includes Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Ojukwu; Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi; and Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede.
Nigeria has repeatedly rejected claims of state-enabled persecution, arguing that violence affects multiple communities regardless of religion. “There is no government policy that supports discrimination against any faith group,” a senior official says.
Another official says the delegation aimed to provide clarity and reinforce cooperation. “Our focus is on facts, collaboration and improving joint security efforts,” he notes.
The meeting comes amid worsening insecurity in several regions of the country, heightening international scrutiny of Nigeria’s security response and prompting renewed diplomatic engagement.
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Juliet Jacob 
Korede Abdullah 