The Presidency has announced that the United States has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening security collaboration with Nigeria.
This partnership will include enhanced intelligence sharing, provision of defense equipment, and other resources to support ongoing efforts against terrorism and violent extremism.
The pledge follows a series of high-level meetings last week between a Nigerian delegation and U.S. officials, aimed at bolstering bilateral security ties and exploring new areas of cooperation.
Led by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, the Nigerian delegation engaged with key U.S. institutions, including the Congress, White House Faith Office, State Department, National Security Council, and Department of Defense.
The team included prominent officials such as Attorney General 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, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, shared that the delegation used the discussions in Washington, D.C., to address and refute allegations of genocide in Nigeria. They emphasized that violent attacks affect communities across all religious and ethnic lines, rejecting narratives that could divide Nigerians or misrepresent the situation.
The talks also focused on fostering a solution-oriented partnership with the U.S., reinforcing mutual trust, and advancing coordinated efforts to protect vulnerable communities, particularly in the Middle Belt region.
The U.S. expressed its readiness to provide complementary support, including humanitarian aid for affected populations and technical assistance to strengthen early-warning systems.
Both nations agreed to implement a non-binding cooperation framework and establish a Joint Working Group to ensure unified and coordinated action in the outlined areas of collaboration.
Onanuga added that the Nigerian government remains committed to improving civilian protection measures and addressing concerns about religious freedom and security. He urged Nigerians to remain confident, assuring that firm and coordinated actions are being taken to secure the country.