Nigeria, US Strengthen Security Partnership Following High-Level Talks

A high-level Nigerian delegation, led by National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, held discussions with senior US officials last week to strengthen security cooperation and enhance protection for Nigerian citizens.

The meetings, held in Washington, DC, involved engagements with the US Congress, the White House Faith Office, the State Department, the National Security Council, and the Department of War.

During the talks, the Nigerian delegation refuted allegations of genocide in Nigeria, stressing that violent attacks affect families across religious and ethnic lines. They warned that misrepresenting the situation could divide Nigerians and distort realities on the ground.

Following the engagements, the US government affirmed its readiness to deepen security cooperation with Nigeria. This includes enhanced intelligence support, expedited processing of defence equipment requests, and potential provision of excess defence articles, subject to availability, to support operations against terrorists and violent extremist groups.

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The US also indicated willingness to provide humanitarian assistance to affected populations in the Middle Belt and technical support to strengthen early-warning mechanisms. Both countries agreed to implement a non-binding cooperation framework immediately and establish a Joint Working Group to ensure a coordinated approach in the agreed areas of cooperation.

In response, the Nigerian delegation reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening civilian protection measures and enhancing security across vulnerable communities. The discussions provided an opportunity to clarify misconceptions about Nigeria, reinforce mutual trust, and foster a solution-driven partnership between the two nations.

The Federal Government emphasized its awareness of heightened sensitivities regarding religious freedom and security and assured citizens that firm, coordinated steps are being taken to secure the nation.

Members of the Nigerian delegation included Attorney General Prince Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, Inspector General of Police Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Intelligence Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Parker Undiandeye, Special Adviser to the NSA Ms. Idayat Hassan, and Director of Foreign Relations at the NSA Ambassador Ibrahim Babani.

The talks mark a renewed commitment between Nigeria and the United States to collaborate on security, intelligence, and humanitarian support, particularly in protecting citizens in the Middle Belt region and countering terrorism nationwide.