Nigeria, US fortify security ties to combat terrorism
Abdullateef Fowewe
A high-level Nigerian delegation led by National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu concluded a series of critical discussions with top U.S. officials last week aimed at strengthening the security partnership between the two nations.
The talks, held in Washington, DC, involved key figures from the US Congress, the White House Faith Office, State Department, National Security Council, and Department of War.
During the meetings, the Nigerian team firmly rejected allegations of genocide, clarifying that violence in Nigeria transcends religious and ethnic groups.
“Violent attacks affect families and communities across religious and ethnic lines,” the delegation emphasised, warning that misrepresenting the situation risks dividing Nigerians and distorting on-the-ground realities.
The United States expressed its readiness to deepen security collaboration by enhancing intelligence sharing, expediting defense equipment requests, and potentially providing excess defense articles to support Nigeria’s fight against terrorists and violent extremists.
Additional assistance will include humanitarian aid to affected populations in the Middle Belt and technical help to strengthen early-warning systems.
Both countries according to a statement on Monday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, agreed to immediately implement a non-binding cooperation framework and establish a Joint Working Group to coordinate efforts.
In response, the Nigerian delegation reiterated its commitment to “strengthening civilian protection measures” to safeguard vulnerable communities.
Through these engagements, the Nigerian government intends to correct misconceptions and build a “constructive, solution-driven partnership” with the US.
The Federal Government assured citizens that “firm, urgent, and coordinated steps are being taken to secure the nation,” especially amid heightened religious and security sensitivities.
The delegation included Attorney General, Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, Chief of Defence Staff General, Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, and other senior security officials.
