A high‑level Nigerian delegation met senior United States officials in Washington, DC last week in a series of engagements that are expected to deepen security cooperation between the two countries and open new avenues for protecting Nigerian citizens. The delegation, led by National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, held talks with officials from the US Congress, the White House Faith Office, the State Department, the National Security Council and the Department of War.
During the meetings the Nigerian side refuted allegations of genocide in Nigeria, emphasizing that violent attacks affect families and communities across religious and ethnic lines. “The delegation strongly rejected wrongful framing of the situation, saying such would only divide Nigerians and distort the realities on the ground,” the State House press release quoted the delegation as stating.
The United States Government affirmed its readiness to deepen security cooperation with Nigeria. According to the release, the United States will provide enhanced intelligence support, expedite processing of defence equipment requests and consider the provision of excess defence articles—subject to availability—to reinforce ongoing operations against terrorists and violent extremist groups. The United States also expressed willingness to extend complementary support, including humanitarian assistance to affected populations in the Middle Belt and technical assistance to strengthen early‑warning mechanisms.
Both countries agreed to implement immediately a non‑binding cooperation framework and to establish a Joint Working Group to ensure a unified and coordinated approach to the agreed areas of cooperation. In return, the Nigerian delegation reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening civilian protection measures.
Members of the delegation included Prince Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, Attorney General of the Federation; Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, Inspector General of Police; General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff; Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Parker Undiandeye, Chief of Defence Intelligence; Ms. Idayat Hassan, Special Adviser to the NSA; and Ambassador Ibrahim Babani, Director of Foreign Relations at the Office of the National Security Adviser.
The Federal Government restated its awareness of heightened sensitivities regarding religious freedom and security, and urged citizens to remain assured that firm, urgent and coordinated steps are being taken to secure the nation. The discussions provided an opportunity to correct misconceptions about Nigeria, forge a constructive, solution‑driven partnership with the United States, reinforce mutual trust and advance a coordinated approach to protecting vulnerable communities, especially in the Middle Belt.
The press release was issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information and Strategy), on November 24, 2025.
