The U.S. Bureau of African Affairs made the position known in a statement on Monday, following a series of deadly attacks reported in Plateau State, particularly around Barkin Ladi.
“The United States commends Nigeria’s strong response to the latest attacks from Fulani militant groups. We will continue to work with the Nigerian government to protect Christians in the Middle Belt,” the bureau said.
Washington also urged the Nigerian government to sustain the momentum in its security response and specifically called for continued efforts to protect communities in Barkin Ladi.
The statement comes amid renewed security concerns in Plateau State, where several communities have experienced deadly attacks in recent weeks. Reports from the area have included the killing of a Baptist pastor and other residents in attacks around Barkin Ladi.
Barkin Ladi has experienced repeated episodes of violence over the years, with recent incidents again raising concerns about the safety of rural communities and the ability of security agencies to prevent further attacks.
The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom has also documented violence involving armed Fulani actors in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, while noting that the identities, motivations and circumstances surrounding individual attacks can vary. Its 2026 report said violence by armed non-state actors has affected both Christian and Muslim communities and displaced large numbers of people.
The latest U.S. statement places renewed international attention on Nigeria’s efforts to protect vulnerable communities and respond to attacks in the Middle Belt.
For communities in Barkin Ladi and surrounding areas, the emphasis remains on sustained security operations, early warning systems and the protection of residents from further violence.
The Nigerian government has repeatedly maintained that insecurity affects citizens across religious and ethnic lines, while continuing to deploy security personnel to areas experiencing attacks.
The U.S. position nevertheless signals Washington’s intention to maintain engagement with the Nigerian government on the protection of communities and religious freedom as security concerns persist in parts of the country.
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