The Presidency has announced that the United States has pledged to deepen security cooperation with Nigeria, including the provision of enhanced intelligence support, defence equipment, and other resources to bolster ongoing operations against terrorists and violent extremist groups.
This commitment follows high-level discussions between a Nigerian delegation and US officials last week, aimed at strengthening bilateral security partnerships and exploring new avenues for collaboration.
The Nigerian delegation, led by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, engaged senior officials across the US Congress, the White House Faith Office, the State Department, the National Security Council, and the Department of Defense. Other members included Attorney General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi; Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede; Chief of Defence Intelligence Lieutenant General Emmanuel Undiandeye; Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun; and representatives from the Office of the National Security Adviser.
In a statement on Monday, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, said the delegation addressed misconceptions about Nigeria, refuting allegations of genocide and emphasizing that violent attacks impact families and communities across religious and ethnic lines. “Misrepresenting the situation only serves to divide Nigerians and distort the realities on the ground,” he said.
Onanuga added that the discussions “provided an opportunity to correct misconceptions, forge a constructive, solution-driven partnership with the United States, reinforce mutual trust, and advance a coordinated approach to protecting vulnerable communities, particularly in the Middle Belt.”
He further noted that the US expressed readiness to provide complementary support, including humanitarian assistance to affected populations and technical aid to strengthen early-warning mechanisms.
Both countries have agreed to implement immediately a non-binding cooperation framework and to establish a Joint Working Group to ensure a unified and coordinated approach to all areas of cooperation.
Onanuga reaffirmed the Nigerian government’s commitment to civilian protection, stating: “The Federal Government remains acutely aware of sensitivities regarding religious freedom and security, and assures citizens that firm, urgent, and coordinated steps are being taken to safeguard the nation.”
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