Diaspora Group Raises Alarm Over Effectiveness of U.S.–Nigeria Security Talks as Kaduna Abductions Persist
- Jan 26
- 2 min read
A U.S.-based Nigerian advocacy group has cautioned that the newly launched U.S.–Nigeria Working Group on Security and Religious Freedom could fail to make an impact unless it delivers swift, tangible results, starting with the rescue of scores of Christians abducted in Kaduna State.
The warning comes amid growing insecurity in Nigeria’s Middle Belt and northern regions, where armed attacks on rural and faith-based communities have continued despite repeated government assurances. The group, Save Nigeria Group USA (SNGUSA), said the credibility of the bilateral initiative now hinges on how quickly it translates dialogue into action.
In a statement released at the weekend, SNGUSA President Stephen Osemwegie described the Working Group’s inauguration as a welcome sign of renewed international attention, but stressed that expectations remain cautious. According to the group, at least 177 Christians were abducted on January 18 during attacks in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, with many still unaccounted for.
SNGUSA urged both governments to prioritise the immediate rescue of abducted victims and to move beyond routine diplomatic engagements. The group warned that delays would further endanger those held captive and deepen public distrust in official responses to the crisis.
The organisation also called for a coordinated strategy to dismantle armed networks targeting vulnerable communities, insisting that freedom of worship must be guaranteed across the country. While acknowledging widespread scepticism about the Nigerian government’s capacity to curb the violence, the group expressed confidence that sustained U.S. engagement could help drive accountability.
Beyond the security concerns, SNGUSA highlighted the humanitarian impact of the ongoing violence, noting that millions of Nigerians have been displaced, with entire communities uprooted and livelihoods destroyed. The group said recovery efforts must include the safe return of displaced families, reconstruction of affected areas and compensation for victims.
SNGUSA said it would continue to closely monitor the Working Group’s activities, adding that the success of the initiative would ultimately be judged not by official statements, but by lives protected and communities secured.
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