The commitment followed a series of high-level meetings in Washington, DC, last week between senior US officials and a Nigerian delegation led by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.
According to a statement issued on Monday by President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the engagements were held across the US Congress, the State Department, the National Security Council, the Department of War, and the White House Faith Office.
The Nigerian team included Attorney General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi, Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Defence Intelligence Lieutenant General Emmanuel Undiandeye, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, and two representatives from the Office of the National Security Adviser. Continue Reading…
During the discussions, the Nigerian delegation rejected allegations of genocide in the country, stressing that violent attacks affect communities across religious and ethnic backgrounds. It warned that mischaracterising the situation would only heighten division and misrepresent Nigeria’s security challenges.
Onanuga said the talks provided an opportunity for Nigeria to “correct misconceptions” and build a more constructive and solution-driven relationship with the United States. He noted that both sides renewed their commitment to protecting vulnerable communities, particularly in the Middle Belt region.
The US government also expressed readiness to offer humanitarian assistance to affected populations and provide technical support to strengthen Nigeria’s early-warning systems.
Both countries agreed to immediately operationalise a non-binding cooperation framework and establish a Joint Working Group to coordinate their security commitments.
The Presidency said Nigeria, in turn, reaffirmed its commitment to improving civilian protection measures and addressing concerns around religious freedom and national security.
“The Federal Government restates its awareness of heightened sensitivities regarding religious freedom and security,” Onanuga said. “Citizens should remain assured that firm, urgent and coordinated steps are being taken to secure the nation.”
The renewed cooperation comes amid heightened insecurity across several regions of Nigeria and increased global attention on the country’s counter-terrorism strategy. Continue Reading…
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