A high-level Nigerian delegation held discussions with United States officials last week, paving the way for strengthened security partnerships and new avenues of cooperation to protect Nigerian citizens.
Led by National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the delegation met with senior officials across the US Congress, the White House Faith Office, the State Department, the National Security Council, and the Department of War.
During the engagements in Washington, DC, the Nigerian team refuted allegations of genocide in Nigeria, stressing that violent attacks affect families and communities across religious and ethnic lines. The delegation warned that wrongful characterisation of the situation could divide Nigerians and distort realities on the ground.
Following the meetings, the US government affirmed its readiness to deepen security cooperation with Nigeria, including enhanced intelligence support, expedited processing of defence equipment requests, and potential provision of excess defence articles—subject to availability—to reinforce operations against terrorists and violent extremist groups.
The United States also pledged complementary assistance, such as humanitarian support for affected populations in the Middle Belt and technical aid to strengthen early-warning mechanisms.
Both countries agreed to implement a non-binding cooperation framework and to establish a Joint Working Group to coordinate activities in the agreed areas. Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening civilian protection measures.
The engagements provided an opportunity to correct misconceptions about Nigeria, build a constructive partnership with the United States, reinforce mutual trust, and advance a coordinated approach to protecting vulnerable communities, particularly in the Middle Belt.
The Federal Government reiterated its awareness of heightened sensitivities regarding religious freedom and security, assuring citizens that urgent, coordinated steps are being taken to safeguard the nation.
Members of the Nigerian delegation included Prince Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, Attorney General of the Federation; Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, Inspector General of Police; General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, Chief of Defence Staff; Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Parker Undiandeye, Chief of Defence Intelligence; Ms. Idayat Hassan, Special Adviser to the NSA; and Ambassador Ibrahim Babani, Director of Foreign Relations at the Office of the National Security Adviser.
