US President commends President Tinubu’s decisive leadership against terrorism and reaffirms America’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s fight against insecurity.
United States President Donald Trump has commended President Bola Tinubu for his decisive leadership in tackling terrorism and insecurity in Nigeria, particularly attacks targeting vulnerable communities.
In a letter dated July 6, 2026, President Trump praised President Tinubu’s commitment to addressing the country’s security challenges and pledged continued support for Nigeria’s counterterrorism efforts.
“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. I applaud your resolve to tackle the issues plaguing your nation, especially the violence affecting Christian communities,” Trump wrote.
“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 added.
President Trump described the United States-Nigeria relationship as crucial at a time when conflict continues to spread across West Africa and other parts of the world, noting that both countries share a common goal of confronting terrorism in all its forms.
He highlighted the significance of the US-Nigeria 2026 Defence Cooperation Roadmap, describing it as a robust framework for strengthening bilateral security cooperation.
The US President disclosed that the United States had deployed its Special Operations Forces to train and support members of the Nigerian Armed Forces with the skills, intelligence and tools required to protect the country’s territorial integrity and safeguard its citizens.
“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 and ensure the safety and security of citizens,” Trump stated.
Security cooperation between both countries has intensified in recent months. In November 2025, Presidents Tinubu and President Trump agreed to establish a Joint Working Group co-headed by the National Security Advisers of Nigeria and the United States to coordinate counterterrorism efforts through intelligence sharing, military training and joint operations.
A major outcome of the collaboration was the coordinated May 16 operation against ISIS hideouts in the Lake Chad region, which reportedly led to the killing of the terrorist group’s top leader, Abubakar Al-Minoki, and several of his lieutenants.
Last week, the US Assistant Secretary of State for Africa, Frank Garcia, visited Abuja and reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Nigeria in security and other strategic areas.
President Trump expressed optimism about continued engagement with President Tinubu, pledging to deepen discussions aimed at advancing peace, security and prosperity in both nations.