SNG USA Concludes High-Level World Press Conference at Global Religious Freedom Summit
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Save Nigeria Group USA has announced the successful conclusion of a high-level Nigeria World Press Conference held on February 3, 2026, on the sidelines of the International Religious Freedom (IRF) Summit at the Washington Hilton Hotel, Washington, D.C., where global stakeholders converged to address the deepening crisis of religious persecution and systemic human rights abuses in Nigeria.
In a press statement signed by its President, Stephen Osemwegie, the U.S.-based advocacy organization described the event as a landmark gathering that “brought together international advocates, faith leaders, policy experts, and human rights defenders to confront the escalating crisis of religious persecution and systemic human rights abuses in Nigeria.”
The organization, known for promoting good governance, social justice, security reform, and religious freedom in Nigeria through strategic international engagement, policy advocacy, and public awareness, emphasized that the conference underscored a unified global resolve to confront what it described as persistent violations of fundamental rights in Nigeria.
According to the statement, the conference drew strength from the participation and support of several respected international partners and analysts, to whom the organization expressed profound appreciation. Save Nigeria Group USA commended Judd Saul, President of Equipping The Persecuted, alongside Dede Laugesen of Save The Persecuted, acknowledging “their unwavering global advocacy for persecuted communities.” The organization also lauded Scott Morgan, a United States Army veteran and geopolitical analyst, noting that his “expertise and passion for African affairs continue to provide critical insight into Nigeria’s security challenges.”
The statement further highlighted the contributions of Barrister Emmanuel Ogebe, described as “a tireless champion of truth and justice, who for over three decades has courageously defended persecuted Christians and other vulnerable communities in Nigeria.” It also praised Doug Burton of Truth Nigeria “for his passion for the persecuted in Nigeria and his journalistic prowess in reporting Nigerian stories many media outlets refuse to report.” Additionally, Valentine Ozigbo was recognized as “a patriotic Nigerian leader with a strong passion for the Nigerian youths,” who “believes in the importance of good governance and leadership to solving societal challenges in Nigeria.”
Save Nigeria Group USA noted that the conference was deeply enriched by the presence of its Special Guest of Honour, Prophet Isa Elbuba, whose message, according to the statement, “served as a clarion call for national repentance, unity, and transformation.”
The organization also extended special recognition to Rev. Dr. Chris Gankon, who traveled from California and played what it described as “a pivotal role in facilitating the participation of the Special Guest,” adding that he “has faithfully labored in this mission field for more than 30 years.” Rev. David Adesina of Graceland International Apostolic Center, Abuja, was praised as “a bold and unwavering voice for truth who traveled from Nigeria to stand in solidarity with the cause.”
Further commendations were directed at Rev. Dr. Rebecca Dali of the EYN Church of the Brethren, who was described as being “widely revered as the ‘Mother of Millions’ for her extraordinary humanitarian service to displaced and traumatized children across Nigeria.” The organization also acknowledged Rev. Marcus Gamache of the EYN Church of the Brethren “for his interfaith work to bring peace to Nigeria,” while Rev. Fr. Ambros Ekeroku was described as “a fearless Catholic and passionate advocate for peace in Nigeria” who facilitated the group’s engagement and participation at the IRF Summit.
The statement also recognized Rev. Chris Anammah as “a spiritually sensitive Nigerian minister who believes the hand of God is working out God’s plan for Nigeria and everyone will play their roles in the Divine plan in this significant moment,” praising him “for making the trip on short notice.” Mrs. Naomi Abashe, identified as a survivor of Islamist terror, was equally recognized, with the organization noting that “herself and her family are alive today by the grace of God,” and acknowledging her as a member of the Berom community in the United States.
The advocacy group expressed gratitude to Nigerian clergymen and women, members of the Nigerian-American community, and participating delegates and organizations whose contributions, it said, were instrumental in making the conference impactful, even though they were “too numerous to individually acknowledge.”
Highlighting internal efforts, the organization credited the success of the conference to the dedication of its leadership team and extended special appreciation to its Directors and Steering Committee members. Those recognized included Uzor Nwokwu, Esq., Secretary and Director, Washington DC; Augustine Njowusi, Mobilization Director; Chief Emmanuel Ozokwelu, Director of Strategy and Faith Group Engagement; Victor Onyeka Ben, Media Director; and Franc Utoo, Esq., Director of Legal Strategy and Governmental Engagement.
Reaffirming its commitment to sustained advocacy, the organization declared that the event signaled a renewed global campaign for justice and accountability in Nigeria. The statement emphasized the significance of the gathering, stressing that “this press conference was not merely a convening—it was a declaration.” It further asserted that “the international community is watching,” adding that “with the support of our partners and the resilience of our people, we will continue to press forward until Nigeria is defined by justice, equity, accountability, and the fundamental right to freedom of worship.”
