United States President Donald Trump has praised President Bola Tinubu for his leadership in tackling terrorism and insecurity in Nigeria, particularly attacks targeting Christian communities, while reaffirming Washington’s commitment to supporting the country’s counterterrorism efforts.
In a letter dated July 6, 2026, Trump thanked Tinubu for his message and commended his resolve to confront the nation’s security challenges, describing it as an honour to stand with Nigeria in the fight against terrorism.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Trump described the US-Nigeria relationship as vital amid growing security threats across West Africa.
He noted that the 2026 US-Nigeria Defence Cooperation Roadmap had strengthened collaboration between both countries and revealed that the United States had deployed Special Operations Forces to train and support Nigerian troops with intelligence, equipment and operational skills.
The Presidency said both countries have expanded cooperation through a Joint Working Group led by their National Security Advisers, focusing on intelligence sharing, military training and joint counterterrorism operations.
It added that the partnership contributed to the May 16 operation against ISIS hideouts in the Lake Chad region, which reportedly eliminated senior militant leader Abubakar Al-Minoki and several of his associates.
The statement also disclosed that US Assistant Secretary of State for Africa, Frank Garcia, visited Abuja last week, where he reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to deepening security and broader bilateral cooperation with Nigeria.
