By Sandra Ugwu

The United States has indicated that it will closely monitor Nigeria's 2027 general elections, with future security cooperation and financial assistance expected to be influenced by the credibility of the electoral process and the country's record on religious freedom.

Speaking in an interview with NoireTV, U.S. Congressman Riley Moore said Washington considers the conduct of Nigeria's next general election a key priority and would be paying close attention to how the polls are organized and conducted.

"We're certainly going to be watching these results and how these elections unfold and how they're executed," Moore said, adding that both he and the U.S. administration would closely monitor developments ahead of and during the elections.

The Republican lawmaker disclosed that the United States House of Representatives is currently considering an appropriations bill containing provisions relating to Nigeria. According to him, the proposed legislation includes measures addressing concerns over the persecution of Christians, restrictions on U.S. security assistance to Nigeria, and conditions the Nigerian government would need to meet.

Moore noted that the legislation contains "strong and aggressive language" that could shape future U.S.-Nigeria relations if enacted into law.

The congressman also referenced separate legislation sponsored by Chris Smith, of which he is a co-sponsor, while emphasizing that the appropriations bill currently before Congress carries greater significance because of its potential legal effect.

He further revealed that he remains in regular contact with the administration of Donald Trump on issues concerning Nigeria. Moore said he intended to discuss the matter further during a scheduled dinner with the President, describing the situation in Nigeria as an issue of importance to the administration.

The remarks come as political activities in Nigeria continue to gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, with domestic and international stakeholders expected to keep a close watch on the country's electoral process.