Nigeria, US Strengthen Security Cooperation in Washington

Nigeria and the United States had a high-level meeting in Washington, D.C., focused on security, counter-terrorism and fundamental freedoms.

The bilateral working group brings together senior officials from both countries to review progress in their counter-terrorism partnership, assess current security efforts and identify areas where closer cooperation is needed.

Nigeria’s delegation is led by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, while the US team is headed by Under-Secretary of State Allison Hooker. Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Minister of Defence Christopher Musa and Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo are also attending.

The discussions cover existing counter-terrorism measures, progress made so far and further steps to tackle terrorism and other security challenges. A separate bilateral defence meeting between Nigeria and the United States is scheduled for Thursday, highlighting the two countries’ efforts to deepen their security partnership.

The bilateral working group was created after US President Donald Trump redesignated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC). The platform provides a formal setting for discussions on counter-terrorism, religious freedom and human rights. Its first meeting took place in Abuja in January.

Both governments have reaffirmed their commitment to protecting religious freedom and promoting freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and freedom of religion or belief for all Nigerians.

The Washington meeting is expected to build on the longstanding Nigeria-US security partnership. It also offers both sides an opportunity to address shared security concerns and strengthen joint efforts against terrorism.

How important could closer Nigeria-US cooperation become in tackling the country’s security challenges?