A high-level Nigerian government delegation has concluded a series of engagements with senior United States officials, paving the way for stronger security cooperation between the two countries.
Led by National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the delegation met with officials from the US Congress, the White House Faith Office, the State Department, the National Security Council, and the Department of War.
The discussions focused on enhancing bilateral security ties and addressing misconceptions about Nigeria’s internal security challenges.
During the meetings, the Nigerian delegation firmly rejected allegations of genocide, stressing that violent attacks in the country cut across religious and ethnic lines. Officials warned that mischaracterising the situation could deepen divisions among Nigerians and distort realities on the ground.
Following the engagements, the US government expressed readiness to expand its support for Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and violent extremism.
This commitment includes enhanced intelligence sharing, faster processing of defence equipment requests, and the possible provision of excess defence articles, subject to availability.
Washington also pledged complementary assistance, including humanitarian aid for affected communities in Nigeria’s Middle Belt and technical support to strengthen early-warning systems.
Both sides agreed to immediately implement a non-binding cooperation framework and establish a Joint Working Group to coordinate efforts. The Nigerian delegation, in turn, reaffirmed its commitment to improving civilian protection measures.
Officials said the talks helped dispel misconceptions about Nigeria, reinforced mutual trust, and advanced a solution-driven partnership aimed at protecting vulnerable communities.
The Federal Government emphasised its awareness of sensitivities surrounding religious freedom and security, assuring citizens that urgent and coordinated steps are being taken to safeguard the nation.
Members of the Nigerian delegation included Attorney General of the Federation Prince Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi; Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun; Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede; Chief of Defence Intelligence Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Parker Undiandeye; Special Adviser to the NSA Ms Idayat Hassan; and Ambassador Ibrahim Babani, Director of Foreign Relations at the Office of the NSA.
The statement was issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
