The Federal Government has announced strengthened security cooperation with the United States, aimed at enhancing civilian protection, upholding religious freedom, and restoring security across Nigeria.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made the announcement following a plenary session of the Nigeria-US Joint Working Group, held on Thursday at the Office of the National Security Adviser in Abuja.
A Sustained and Active Partnership
Idris described the high-level meeting—the third since November 2025—as evidence of a serious and outcome-driven alliance. “This bilateral partnership reflects not only our shared commitment to religious freedom and civilian protection, but also a mature strategic relationship grounded in trust, candour and shared responsibility,” he stated.
The session was co-chaired by Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and the US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, Allison Hooker.
Tangible Operational Progress
The Minister highlighted that the cooperation is yielding concrete results on the ground. He cited improved intelligence sharing and operational coordination with US partners, which has bolstered ongoing military campaigns such as Operation Hadin Kai in the North-East and Operation Fasan Yamma.
Idris also confirmed that the US has committed to delivering outstanding military equipment procured by Nigeria over the past five years. This includes drones, helicopters, various platforms, spare parts, and support systems, alongside an offer of surplus defence assets.
Strengthening Domestic Security Measures
Idris reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s directive declaring national security emergencies in high-risk areas and authorizing intensified joint operations. “Nigeria is acting decisively. Security agencies have clear instructions to protect communities and respond swiftly to threats,” he affirmed.
He further outlined ongoing efforts to strengthen early-warning systems and develop a unified national database on violence-related casualties to improve accountability and guide security responses. The Minister of Justice, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force are actively investigating and prosecuting terrorism cases.
Context and Reassurance
The engagement occurs amid ongoing diplomatic discussions following the US redesignation of Nigeria as a ‘Country of Particular Concern’ concerning religious freedom. The Nigerian government has consistently rejected claims of systemic religious persecution, maintaining that insecurity affects all citizens irrespective of faith.
Idris urged public patience and support, assuring Nigerians that the partnership is focused on achieving a safer future. “The work being done today is to ensure a safer country tomorrow,” he concluded.
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