U.S. President, Donald Trump has told President Bola Tinubu that it is a thing of pride to partner him in fighting terrorism.
In enervating words, Trump commended Tinubu’s decisive leadership, reaffirming America’s support for Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and efforts to strengthen national security.
This is contained in a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Wednesday in Abuja.
According to Onanuga, Trump conveyed the message in a letter dated July 6, 2026, to Tinubu.
“Thank you for your thoughtful letter. Your kind words mean a great deal to me, and I appreciate your decisive leadership on behalf of the Nigerian people,” Trump wrote.
He praised Tinubu’s determination to confront Nigeria’s security challenges.
“I applaud your resolve to tackle the issues plaguing your nation, especially the violence affecting Christian communities.
“It is a true honour to stand with you in the fight against terrorists and to make the Federal Republic of Nigeria stronger and more prosperous,” he said.
Trump described the U.S.-Nigeria relationship as crucial at a time of growing insecurity across West Africa.
“The United States-Nigeria relationship is crucial at a time where conflict has spread across West Africa and around the world.
“We both share a mutual goal of confronting terrorism in all its forms,” he said.
He noted that the 2026 U.S.-Nigeria Defence Cooperation Roadmap had established a strong framework for deepening security collaboration.
Trump said the U.S. had deployed Special Operations Forces to support Nigeria’s Armed Forces with training, intelligence and operational capabilities.
“I am proud to have deployed the United States Special Operations Forces—among the most elite military units anywhere in the world—to equip the brave men and women in the Armed Forces of Nigeria with the skills, tools and intelligence they need to protect your homeland,” he said.
The U.S President added that the collaboration was aimed at ensuring the safety of all Nigerians, particularly communities affected by terrorist attacks.
“I look forward to our continued discussions over the course of my Presidency,” Trump added.
The presidency recalled that both leaders agreed in Nov. 2025 to establish a Joint Working Group, co-chaired by the National Security Advisers of Nigeria and the United States, to strengthen counter-terrorism cooperation.
It said the partnership had enhanced intelligence sharing, military training and joint operations, including the May 16 offensive against ISIS hideouts in the Lake Chad region.
The operation eliminated the group’s leader, Abubakar Al-Minoki, and several of his lieutenants.
The presidency added that U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Africa, Frank Garcia, recently visited Abuja and reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to expanding cooperation with Nigeria in security and other strategic areas.
