United States Congressman Riley Moore has credited President Donald Trump with authorising the joint Nigerian-American military operation that reportedly killed Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, described as the second-in-command of ISIS globally.
Moore also issued a warning to those responsible for attacks on Christians in Nigeria, saying they would face serious consequences.
Speaking during an interview on NewsNation with anchor Anna Kooiman on Sunday, the Republican lawmaker discussed the strike and the wider issue of religious persecution in north-eastern Nigeria.
According to Moore, Trump remains strongly committed to protecting Christians in Nigeria from attacks by extremist groups.
In a post shared on his X account on Monday alongside a clip from the interview, Moore stated that the operation which eliminated al-Minuki sent a strong message to terrorist groups targeting innocent civilians, especially Christians.
He said those involved in such attacks would be tracked down and brought to justice, warning against underestimating Trump’s determination on the issue.
Moore further revealed that the Trump administration increased its engagement with Nigeria after the country was designated as a “nation of particular concern” on October 31 last year.
The congressman said Trump personally directed him to investigate allegations of Christian persecution and killings in Nigeria.
According to him, he travelled to Nigeria with fellow members of the House Appropriations Committee, where they compiled a report containing recommendations aimed at protecting vulnerable communities affected by attacks from extremist groups.
Moore added that the US president remains deeply interested in the situation and that many Americans also view the matter as important.
He noted that public support for efforts to address the violence has continued to grow, particularly among Christian communities in the United States.
The lawmaker also explained that US involvement in counterterrorism efforts in Nigeria dates back several years, particularly during the rise of Boko Haram before 2015.
Elijah Adeyemi
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