Adeboye, Oyedepo Seek Stronger U.S. Support to Combat Terrorism in Nigeria

The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, and the Presiding Bishop of Living Faith Church Worldwide, Bishop David Oyedepo, have appealed for stronger international support, particularly from the United States, to help Nigeria tackle the growing threat of terrorism and insecurity.

The appeal was made during the 2026 Faith Defender Award Gala held at the Hilton Garden Inn on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., where religious leaders, policymakers and human rights advocates gathered to discuss security and religious freedom.

Speaking at the event, Pastor Adeboye stressed the need for increased global cooperation in addressing the security challenges confronting Nigeria.

According to him, the country requires more international assistance to effectively combat terrorism and restore lasting peace to affected communities.

The respected cleric urged the United States and its allies to use their influence in supporting Nigeria’s fight against violent extremism and insecurity.

He also commended U.S. President Donald Trump for his tough stance against terrorism, stating that although he may not agree with all of the American leader’s policies, he believes strong action against terrorism remains necessary.

In a keynote address delivered on his behalf, Bishop David Oyedepo expressed deep concern over the worsening security situation in Nigeria.

He described the country as being close to a critical point due to continuous attacks by terrorist groups and armed criminals across several regions.

Oyedepo noted that the persistent violence has continued to claim lives, displace communities and create fear among citizens, adding that urgent action is required to reverse the trend.

Former United States Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom, Sam Brownback, also addressed the gathering, warning that Nigeria could face serious civil unrest if insecurity is not decisively addressed.

He urged Nigerian authorities and international partners to take immediate steps toward ending terrorism and protecting vulnerable communities.

Human rights advocate Dr. Katrina Swett equally called for stronger American involvement in promoting religious freedom and providing support for victims affected by extremist violence.

She maintained that while the future of Nigeria ultimately rests with its people, the United States has the capacity to contribute significantly through diplomatic engagement and strategic partnerships.

President of Save Nigeria Group USA, Stephen Osemwegie, appealed to members of the U.S. Congress to support legislation aimed at strengthening accountability for terrorism-related crimes in Nigeria.

According to him, the proposed Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act would improve international efforts to address religious persecution and violent extremism.

The event, themed “Thank You, America,” concluded a week-long advocacy campaign that included meetings with U.S. lawmakers to promote greater international cooperation in tackling insecurity in Nigeria.

During the ceremony, former U.S. President Donald Trump received the 2026 Faith Defender Award in recognition of what organisers described as his administration’s commitment to promoting religious freedom and combating terrorism globally.

The gathering underscored growing international concern over Nigeria’s security challenges and renewed calls for stronger partnerships to restore peace and protect vulnerable communities across the country.