“Tinubu Administration Is Spending Millions Lobbying Congress While Failing to Address Genocide Against Christians” — US Lawmaker, Riley Moore

A U.S. lawmaker, Riley Moore, has criticised the administration of President Bola Tinubu over what he described as significant spending on lobbying efforts in Washington while failing to adequately address violence affecting Christian communities in Nigeria.

Mr Moore made the remarks following the passage of the U.S. State Department’s annual funding bill, stating that the Nigerian government had prioritised lobbying Congress despite ongoing security concerns. He argued that the administration had not met conditions tied to U.S. security assistance.

According to Mr Moore, the legislation introduces restrictions on security aid to Nigeria unless specific benchmarks are achieved. These include improving responses to violence, ensuring accountability for perpetrators, and providing support for internally displaced persons, including efforts to return them to their communities.

The bill also mandates a formal assessment of Nigeria’s compliance with these conditions by the U.S. Secretary of State. It further emphasises that any assistance should focus on preventing atrocities, promoting religious freedom, and addressing threats posed by armed groups, including militias and extremist organisations.

Additional provisions call for stronger accountability within Nigeria’s security forces, expanded humanitarian assistance, and support for faith-based organisations operating in conflict-affected areas. Measures to disarm militant groups are also included.

Mr Moore was part of a U.S. delegation that recently visited Nigeria to assess claims of targeted violence against Christians.

The Nigerian presidency has not issued an official response to the criticism. While presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga did not comment, another aide, Daniel Bwala, directed inquiries to the Office of the National Security Adviser.

Nigeria has faced increasing scrutiny from U.S. officials over security challenges and allegations of religiously motivated violence. These concerns contributed to the country’s redesignation as a “Country of Particular Concern” by the U.S. government last year.

In a related development, U.S. authorities carried out a military strike against suspected terrorist targets in Sokoto State on December 25, 2025.

Earlier reports also indicated that the Nigerian government engaged a U.S.-based lobbying firm in a deal valued at approximately $9 million, amid efforts to strengthen relations with Washington and address growing international pressure over security issues.