US, Nigeria Agrees To Boost Security Collaboration With Intelligence Sharing And Military Support
The United States and the Federal Government of Nigeria have agreed to strengthen security cooperation, with commitments to expand intelligence sharing and provide military support for nationwide counter-terrorism and counter-extremism operations.
The agreement follows a series of high-level meetings in Washington last week between senior Nigerian officials and key US Government agencies, aimed at deepening defence ties and exploring new areas of collaboration.
The Nigerian delegation, led by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, met with officials from 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 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.
Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, said the meetings provided an opportunity to address misconceptions about Nigeria’s security situation, including claims of genocide, and to emphasize that violence affects multiple religious and ethnic communities.
“The discussions allowed us to correct misconceptions, foster a solution-driven partnership with the United States, reinforce mutual trust, and advance a coordinated approach to protecting vulnerable communities, particularly in the Middle Belt,” Onanuga said.
He added that the US has expressed willingness to provide complementary support, including humanitarian aid for affected populations and technical assistance to enhance early-warning systems.
Both countries have agreed to implement a non-binding cooperation framework immediately and to establish a Joint Working Group to coordinate actions in priority areas. The Nigerian government also reiterated its commitment to improving civilian protection and addressing concerns around religious freedom and security.
“The Federal Government recognizes the heightened sensitivities surrounding religious freedom and security and assures citizens that firm, urgent, and coordinated measures are being taken to safeguard the nation,” Onanuga concluded.
