The Situation Has Never Been More Dire’: Adeboye Urges US to Lead Stronger Offensive Against Terrorism in Nigeria

The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has called on the United States to strengthen its support for Nigeria’s fight against terrorism, warning that the country’s security crisis has reached a dangerous level with implications beyond its borders.

Speaking in Washington, D.C., during the inaugural U.S.-Nigeria Faith Heroes Award Gala held on June 23, 2026, Adeboye said the worsening insecurity should no longer be viewed as an internal Nigerian issue, noting that terrorist violence has expanded from parts of Northern Nigeria into other regions of the country.

Addressing American lawmakers, diplomats, faith leaders, human rights advocates and members of the Nigerian diaspora, the cleric appealed for greater international assistance.

“If you want to help us, please go ahead and do it. The situation has never been more dire. What began in parts of Northern Nigeria is now spreading into other regions of the country,” he said.

Adeboye disclosed that the Redeemed Christian Church of God now operates more than 8,000 parishes across Northern Nigeria, placing thousands of worshippers in communities repeatedly affected by terrorist attacks.

“Terrorism is now at my doorstep,” he added, urging the United States to move beyond expressions of concern and play a stronger leadership role in supporting Nigeria’s efforts to defeat violent extremism.

The event, organised by Save Nigeria Group USA and the U.S.-Nigeria Civil Society Coalition, focused on promoting religious freedom, security cooperation and humanitarian support. Its theme, “Thank You, America. Please Do More,” reflected renewed calls for increased international engagement against terrorism and religious persecution in Nigeria.

Coalition President Stephen Osemwegie described extremist groups operating in Nigeria as beneficiaries of international funding, weapons networks and transnational alliances.

“These terrorist groups are globally armed, supported and financed. We need a coalition of freedom-loving nations led by the United States and its allies to confront and defeat this threat,” he said.

The gala also recognised several individuals for contributions to religious freedom and humanitarian service. Adeboye and his wife, Pastor Folu Adeboye, received the Patriarchs of Faith Award, while Bishop David Oyedepo was similarly honoured through a representative.

Representatives of the Nigerian government reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening security cooperation with the United States and other international partners, while speakers at the event urged coordinated global action to address terrorism and protect vulnerable communities across Nigeria.