By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The General Overseer of Enoch Adeboye and the Presiding Bishop of David Oyedepo have urged the United States to strengthen its support for Nigeria’s fight against terrorism. The clerics made the appeal during the 2026 Faith Defender Award Gala held on June 23 at the Hilton Garden Inn on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. They warned that worsening insecurity could push Nigeria toward instability and called for stronger international cooperation to combat terrorism.
Adeboye Seeks Greater International Support
According to a statement signed by Save Nigeria Group USA President, Stephen Osemwegie, Pastor Adeboye appealed to the United States and its allies to increase assistance for Nigeria.
He stressed that the country’s security crisis requires stronger global partnerships.
“If you want to help us, help us more. No matter who is in office in Nigeria, only God can help us. Use your influence to help us,” Adeboye said.
Oyedepo Warns Nigeria Is Near Breaking Point
In a keynote address delivered on his behalf, Bishop Oyedepo described Nigeria’s security situation as alarming.
He said persistent terrorist attacks had pushed the country close to collapse.
“My heart bleeds,” he said while expressing support for proposed U.S. legislation designed to improve accountability for terrorism-related crimes in Nigeria.
Although he praised U.S. President Donald Trump for his stance against terrorism, Oyedepo clarified that he did not agree with all of Trump’s policies.
“Thank God for Trump. He means business,” he added.
Former U.S. Ambassador Raises Alarm
Former U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom, Sam Brownback, warned that Nigeria faces a critical moment.
“Nigeria is at a fork in the road. Address this insecurity or face violent civil unrest,” Brownback said.
Similarly, human rights advocate Katrina Swett urged the United States to increase efforts to protect religious freedom and support victims of extremist violence.
“The future is in the hands of Nigerians, but America has powerful leverage to do more,” she stated.
Call for U.S. Legislation on Religious Freedom
Stephen Osemwegie also appealed to the U.S. Congress to pass the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act.
He said the proposed legislation would improve accountability for terrorism-related offences and strengthen international cooperation against extremist groups.
The gala, themed “Thank You, America,” concluded a week-long advocacy campaign that featured meetings with U.S. lawmakers on security and religious freedom.
During the event, Donald Trump received the 2026 Faith Defender Award. Organisers said the honour recognised his administration’s commitment to promoting religious freedom and combating terrorism globally.
