The Presidency has announced a significant breakthrough in defense relations, revealing that the United States Government has signaled a renewed commitment to expanding security collaboration with Nigeria.
This bolstered partnership will reportedly include increased intelligence sharing and the supply of critical military equipment designed to support counter-terrorism and counter-extremism operations across the nation.
High-Level Talks in Washington
The assurance comes on the heels of a series of strategic meetings held in Washington, D.C., last week. A high-powered Nigerian delegation engaged with key arms of the U.S. government to strengthen defense ties and explore new avenues of cooperation.
The Nigerian team was led by the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu. The delegation included top-tier security and legal officials:
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Lateef Fagbemi: Attorney General of the Federation
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General Olufemi Oluyede: Chief of Defence Staff
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Lieutenant General Emmanuel Undiandeye: Chief of Defence Intelligence
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Kayode Egbetokun: Inspector General of Police
During the visit, these officials held discussions with representatives from the U.S. Congress, the White House Faith Office, the State Department, and the National Security Council.
Correcting Misconceptions
Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, disclosed details of the meetings in a statement issued on Monday.
He noted that the engagements provided a crucial platform to address international misconceptions regarding Nigeria’s internal security crisis.
Specifically, the delegation dismissed narratives suggesting that the violence in Nigeria amounts to “genocide.” They emphasized that the insecurity affects diverse communities regardless of religion or ethnicity and argued that mischaracterizing the conflict only serves to deepen divisions.
A New Joint Framework
The outcome of the diplomatic mission includes an agreement to immediately implement a non-binding cooperation framework. Both nations will establish a Joint Working Group to coordinate actions in priority areas.
The United States also expressed a willingness to extend complementary support beyond military hardware. This includes humanitarian assistance for populations in the conflict-prone Middle Belt region and technical support to strengthen early-warning security mechanisms.
Commitment to Religious Freedom
The Nigerian government used the opportunity to reaffirm its dedication to protecting civilians and upholding religious freedom.
“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 concluded.
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