Why US Congressman Riley Moore Says Nigerians Have Lost Trust in Their Government

US Congressman Riley M. Moore has made a striking statement: many Nigerians have lost trust in their government. During a hearing of the U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee on Africa, which is examining the issue of Nigeria’s redesignation as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC), he expressed deep concern over the perceived failure of the Nigerian leadership.

Moore pointedly asked:

“How can you trust a government that doesn’t show up when you ask it to?”

He argued that widespread distrust is rooted in the government’s inability — or unwillingness — to respond effectively to security requests. He recalled a recent incident in Plateau State, where a pastor reportedly warned the authorities of an imminent attack within 24 hours, but was allegedly ignored. Instead of action, according to Moore, the government issued a press release dismissing the warning as “fake news.”

This statement from Congressman Moore comes at a time when he is pressing strongly for the U.S. State Department, led by Secretary Marco Rubio, to re-designate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC). He argues this should be done because of what he describes as “systematic persecution” and mass killings of Christians in parts of Nigeria.

Moore’s position has strong backing: more than 55 U.S.-based organizations — including faith-based, legal, and human-rights groups — have endorsed his resolution condemning Christian persecution in Nigeria. He highlights alarming data: over 7,000 Christians were reportedly killed in 2025 alone, and since 2009 nearly 19,000 churches have been attacked or destroyed, per his sources.

He also warns of the possible diplomatic consequences: redesignating Nigeria as a CPC could lead to the suspension of U.S. arms sales and technical assistance. According to Moore, the U.S. must use all available diplomatic tools to pressure Nigeria into protecting vulnerable communities.

In a recent high-level meeting in Washington, where a Nigerian government delegation was present (led by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu), Moore issued a pointed warning that “President Trump does not make idle threats.” He stressed that while the U.S. is ready to cooperate on counterinsurgency, the Nigerian government must demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding religious minorities.

Moore has further introduced a formal House resolution, condemning what he calls ongoing atrocities against Christians in Nigeria and supporting the CPC re-designation. He argues this is not just a moral issue, but one of international accountability and human rights.

Context & Reactions

Not surprisingly, Moore’s rhetoric has sparked strong reactions within Nigeria. Aides to President Tinubu have sharply criticized him. One such aide described his characterization of Nigeria as “ignorant” and politically motivated. The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also officially rejected his claims, calling them false and misleading. According to the ministry, the violence in Nigeria is not solely religious; many Nigerians Christian and Muslim alike are victims of terrorism and banditry.

Why This Matters

1. Trust Deficit: Moore’s core claim that Nigerians don’t trust their government reflects a deeper frustration over governance and security.
2. Religious Persecution: The re-designation bid underscores a serious concern about religious freedom in Nigeria.
3. Diplomatic Leverage: A CPC status would give the U.S. stronger diplomatic and economic tools, potentially influencing how security assistance is delivered.
4. Accountability and Pressure: The resolution and Moore’s activism aim to hold the Nigerian government accountable and push for concrete reforms.
5. International Spotlight: With 55 organizations backing him, Moore’s campaign is not just political but also moral bringing global attention to Nigeria’s human-rights challenges.