Nigeria and US Forge New Security Alliance
A high-level Nigerian delegation has successfully concluded critical security talks with United States officials, culminating in a new joint framework designed to intensify the fight against terrorism and protect civilians. The announcement was made public on Monday, November 24, 2025, by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, via a post on the social media platform X.
Ribadu Leads Delegation in High-Stakes Washington Talks
The Nigerian team, which was led by the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, engaged in extensive discussions with key figures across the US government. These included senior members of the US Congress, officials from the White House Faith Office, the State Department, the National Security Council, and the Department of Defense. A central point of the dialogue was Nigeria's firm rejection of allegations labeling the ongoing violence as a genocide against Christians.
The delegation emphasized that violent attacks affect all communities across Nigeria, irrespective of religious or ethnic lines. They issued a stark warning that misrepresenting the situation with wrongful claims could dangerously divide the nation and distort the complex realities on the ground.
Agreed Framework: Intelligence, Equipment, and Humanitarian Aid
In a significant move, the United States government expressed its readiness to substantially increase support for Nigeria's security efforts. This enhanced cooperation will include:
- Improved and more rapid intelligence sharing.
- Expedited processing of requests for defense equipment.
- Potential direct provision of defense materials.
- Humanitarian aid for communities affected by violence in the Middle Belt region.
- Technical support to bolster early-warning systems.
Both nations agreed to establish a non-binding cooperation framework and to create a Joint Working Group. This group will be tasked with ensuring a coordinated and effective approach to security and the protection of vulnerable populations.
The Nigerian delegation, which also included the Attorney General, the Inspector General of Police, and the Chief of Defence Staff, reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to safeguarding all civilians and decisively addressing the nation's security challenges.
Context: Sanctions and CAN's Stance
These talks occurred against a backdrop of reports that the United States was considering designating Nigeria as a "Country of Particular Concern" and potentially imposing sanctions over allegations of failing to protect Christian communities. The US had previously condemned mass abductions in states like Niger and Kebbi, urging the Tinubu administration to act decisively.
In a related development, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has welcomed the prospect of US assistance. CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, stated that international pressure could spur more decisive government action and reiterated calls for justice and the resettlement of displaced Christians to their ancestral lands.
The Federal Government has reassured Nigerian citizens that urgent and coordinated steps are being taken to restore and maintain safety and security across the nation.
