News Update
United States President Donald Trump has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism, describing his efforts as a strong commitment to protecting the country and dealing with the security problems affecting many communities.
The message was contained in a letter dated July 6, 2026, and made public on Wednesday in a statement issued by the Presidency through the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
According to the statement, Trump welcomed Tinubu’s determination to address the violence affecting parts of Nigeria, particularly attacks on Christian communities.
He also expressed the United States’ readiness to continue working with Nigeria in tackling terrorist groups and improving the country’s security and development.
The letter noted that both countries have strengthened their relationship in recent months through closer cooperation on security matters.
It said Nigeria and the United States have continued to work together to confront terrorism and other threats affecting the West African region.
The Presidency recalled that President Trump and President Tinubu agreed in November last year to establish a Joint Working Group led by the National Security Advisers of both countries.
The group has focused on intelligence sharing, military training and joint operations aimed at reducing terrorist activities across Nigeria.
One of the major results of that partnership, according to the statement, was the coordinated military operation carried out on May 16 against ISIS hideouts in the Lake Chad region.
The operation reportedly led to the death of ISIS leader Abubakar Al-Minoki along with several of his senior commanders.
The statement also mentioned the recent visit of the United States Assistant Secretary of State for Africa, Frank Garcia, to Abuja. During the visit, Garcia met with top Nigerian government officials and promised that both countries would continue expanding cooperation on security and other areas of mutual interest.
In his letter, Trump described the relationship between the United States and Nigeria as important at a time when security challenges have spread across West Africa and other parts of the world.
He said both nations share the same goal of defeating terrorism in all its forms.
He also referred to the 2026 US-Nigeria Defence Cooperation Roadmap, saying it provides a solid plan for both countries to deepen military cooperation.
Trump added that the United States had deployed Special Operations Forces to support the Armed Forces of Nigeria through training, intelligence and other assistance designed to improve their ability to protect the country and its citizens.
He also expressed hope for continued discussions with President Tinubu throughout his administration as both nations strengthen their partnership.