By Otobong Gabriel, Abuja
The Save Nigeria Group USA (SNGUSA) has welcomed the formal inauguration of the U.S.–Nigeria Working Group in Abuja, describing it as a critical step in addressing Nigeria’s escalating security challenges, particularly the targeted persecution of Christian communities.
The statement, signed by Stephen Osemwegie, President, and Victor Onyeka Ben, Media Director, Save Nigeria Group USA, commended the United States Government under President Donald J. Trump for prioritizing Nigeria and acknowledging the worsening plight of Christian populations under attack by radical Islamist terrorist groups, including the notorious Fulani Islamist militia.
These groups have carried out repeated attacks across Nigeria’s Middle Belt states, leaving communities devastated.
Stephen Osemwegie called the inauguration “a moment of cautious hope for millions of persecuted Christians, who have waited far too long for global action.”
He added: “We thank President Trump and the U.S. Government for demonstrating moral clarity and leadership at a time when prolonged silence has cost countless innocent lives.”
The Working Group, led on the U.S. side by Under Secretary Allison Hooker and hosted by Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, is tasked with advancing bilateral cooperation on security, counterterrorism, and religious freedom.
Osemwegie emphasized the need for immediate, tangible results:
“This Working Group must not become another diplomatic exercise. Its priority must be the safe rescue of the 177 Christians abducted on January 18 in Kajuru, Kaduna State. Every passing day places their lives at greater risk.”
The group reiterated its call for joint U.S.–Nigeria military intervention to secure the release of abducted worshippers and dismantle terrorist networks targeting vulnerable communities.
“No one should fear attending a church or mosque anywhere in Nigeria. Freedom of worship is a fundamental human right, not a privilege granted by terrorists,” Osemwegie stated.
While skepticism remains regarding the political will of the current Nigerian government, SNGUSA expressed confidence in the leadership of the Trump Administration, particularly U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, citing his longstanding advocacy for international religious freedom.
“Secretary Rubio’s unwavering commitment gives us reason to believe that this Working Group can turn concern into action. Accountability, protection of civilians, and justice for victims must be non-negotiable,” Osemwegie added.
Despite this development, the humanitarian crisis continues. More than 11 million Nigerians remain internally displaced, and communities across the Middle Belt require urgent attention.
Osemwegie stressed that justice includes restoration, safe return of displaced families, rebuilding of destroyed communities, and compensation for lost livelihoods.
SNGUSA affirmed its commitment to ongoing advocacy and monitoring of the Working Group’s progress:
“We welcome this partnership with bated breath and prayerful hope.
The world is watching. History will judge us not by statements made, but by lives saved.”
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