US President Donald Trump has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as his firm leadership “on behalf of the Nigerian people,” while assuring Nigeria of continued American support in the battle against terrorism.
In a letter sent to Tinubu, Trump highlighted the Nigerian president’s resolve “to tackle the issues plaguing Nigeria, especially the violence affecting Christian communities.”
He wrote: “It is a true honour to stand with you in the fight against these terrorists and to make the Federal Republic of Nigeria stronger and more prosperous.”
Roots of the US-Nigeria security partnership
Trump’s letter comes amid strengthening security cooperation between Abuja and Washington.
In November last year, the two presidents reached an agreement to establish a Joint Working Group, with the National Security Advisers of both countries serving as co-chairs, to coordinate efforts aimed at confronting armed groups posing a threat to stability across Nigeria.
The initiative subsequently led to the adoption of several measures focused on training programmes, intelligence sharing, and coordinated military operations.
The efforts were designed to weaken and ultimately dismantle terrorist networks operating across Nigeria and the wider Lake Chad basin.
ISIS strike in Lake Chad
One of the most notable results of the growing security partnership occurred on May 16, when a coordinated operation targeting ISIS positions in the Lake Chad area led to the death of the group’s top commander, Abubakar Al-Minoki, as well as several of his senior lieutenants.
The successful operation was viewed as a clear indication of the potential impact of sustained security cooperation between Nigeria and the United States.
As the partnership continues to gain momentum, Frank Garcia, the US Assistant Secretary of State for Africa, visited Abuja last week, where he held discussions with senior Nigerian government officials.
During the visit, Garcia reiterated Washington’s determination to strengthen its relationship with Nigeria, particularly in the area of security and other matters of mutual interest.
