Nigeria and the United States have advanced their strategic security partnership, with both countries reaffirming their commitment to stronger defence cooperation, intelligence sharing and coordinated efforts to combat terrorism and other emerging security threats.
According to an official statement signed by Leah Katung-Babatunde, Special Adviser (Media) to the Honourable Minister of Defence, the renewed commitment was made during the second meeting of the United States–Nigeria Joint Working Group, held in Washington D.C. from August 12 to 13, 2026, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral security relations.
The meeting was co-chaired by Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the U.S. Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, Allison Hooker.
The high-level Nigerian delegation included the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd); Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele; Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede; Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lieutenant General Parker Udiandeye; and other senior government and military officials.
As part of the engagements, General Musa led the Nigerian defence delegation to a strategic meeting at the Pentagon with senior officials of the U.S. Department of War led by Julia Sokol, Acting Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of War for International Security Affairs.
The discussions focused on deepening military-to-military relations, strengthening intelligence collaboration, enhancing operational coordination and reinforcing the shared security architecture between Nigeria and the United States.
The engagements also reviewed progress and strategic frameworks following Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC), with both sides stressing the importance of continued dialogue and mutual respect in addressing shared security challenges.
The talks further underscored the commitment of both countries to developing practical areas of cooperation aimed at countering terrorism and other transnational threats affecting Nigeria, the wider West African region and the international community.
The high-level discussions form part of Nigeria’s broader diplomatic engagement with the United States to consolidate strategic partnerships and enhance international cooperation in addressing the country’s security challenges.
The two countries reaffirmed their resolve to sustain the momentum of the Joint Working Group and deepen bilateral cooperation in defence, security and counter-terrorism.
The Washington engagements are expected to further strengthen the longstanding security partnership between Nigeria and the United States.
