Nigeria, Us Agree To Deepen Security Cooperation After High-Level Talks In Washington

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria 

A high-level Nigerian delegation led by National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu has concluded successful engagements with senior United States officials, resulting in strengthened security partnerships and new commitments to support Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and violent extremism.

The talks, held last week in Washington DC with officials from the US Congress, White House Faith Office, State Department, National Security Council and Department of Defence, saw Nigeria firmly reject allegations of genocide, stressing that violent attacks cut across religious and ethnic lines and that such framing only divides citizens.

Following the meetings, the United States pledged enhanced intelligence sharing, faster processing of Nigeria’s defence equipment requests, potential supply of excess defence articles, humanitarian assistance for affected populations in the Middle Belt, and technical support for early-warning systems.

Both countries immediately agreed to activate a non-binding cooperation framework and establish a Joint Working Group to coordinate implementation.

The Nigerian delegation, which included Attorney General Prince Lateef Fagbemi SAN, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Defence Intelligence Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Undiandeye and other senior officials, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to stronger civilian protection measures.

The Federal Government described the visit as a major step in correcting misconceptions, rebuilding mutual trust, and advancing coordinated efforts to protect vulnerable communities, particularly in the Middle Belt.

It urged Nigerians to remain calm, assuring that firm and urgent actions are being taken to secure the nation.