The Presidency says the United States Government has agreed to strengthen security cooperation with Nigeria, including enhanced intelligence sharing, defence equipment support, and operational assistance in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism.
The development follows a series of high-level meetings in Washington, D.C., last week between a Nigerian government delegation and senior U.S. officials aimed at advancing defence collaboration and opening new channels for joint security efforts.
The Nigerian delegation was led by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and included the 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 of the Office of the National Security Adviser.
According to a statement issued Monday by Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, the delegation held engagements with officials from the U.S. Congress, State Department, National Security Council, White House Faith Office and the Department of War.
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During the discussions, the Nigerian delegation dismissed allegations of genocide in the country, stressing that victims of violent attacks cut across ethnic and religious backgrounds. They cautioned that such mischaracterisation risks inflaming tensions and undermining national unity.
“The discussions provided ample opportunity to correct misconceptions about Nigeria, forged a constructive, solution-driven partnership with the United States, reinforced mutual trust, and advanced a coordinated approach to protecting vulnerable communities, especially in the Middle Belt,” Onanuga stated.
The Presidency added that the U.S. expressed readiness to provide humanitarian relief to affected communities, as well as technical support to enhance early-warning systems and civilian protection mechanisms.
Both countries have agreed to establish a Joint Working Group and immediately operationalise a non-binding cooperation framework to ensure a coordinated approach to the agreed areas of collaboration.
The Nigerian government reiterated its commitment to strengthening security institutions and protecting civilian populations.
“The Federal Government restates its awareness of heightened sensitivities regarding religious freedom and security and urges citizens to remain assured that firm, urgent, and coordinated steps are being taken to secure the nation,” the statement added.
