The Nigerian government has announced that the United States has committed to strengthening security cooperation with Nigeria, including enhanced intelligence sharing and the supply of defence equipment to support operations against terrorist and extremist groups.

According to the presidency, the commitment followed a series of high-level meetings in Washington, D.C., last week between a Nigerian delegation and senior U.S. officials.

In a statement released by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, the delegation—led by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu—met with officials from the U.S. Congress, the State Department, the National Security Council, the Department of War, and the White House Faith Office.

Other members of the Nigerian team included Attorney General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi, Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Defence Intelligence Lieutenant General Emmanuel Undiandeye, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, and two representatives from the Office of the National Security Adviser.

Onanuga stated that the meetings allowed Nigeria to address what it described as “misconceptions” surrounding the country’s security crisis and to counter allegations of genocide. The delegation emphasised that violent attacks impact communities across religious and ethnic groups and warned that inaccurate portrayals could deepen divisions.

According to the presidency, the discussions resulted in a “constructive, solution-driven partnership” focused on protecting vulnerable communities, particularly in the Middle Belt region. The U.S. government reportedly expressed readiness to provide humanitarian support, early-warning system enhancements, and other forms of complementary assistance.

Both countries agreed to begin implementing a non-binding cooperation framework immediately and to establish a Joint Working Group to coordinate the agreed security initiatives. Nigeria also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening measures that ensure the protection of civilians.

“The Federal Government restates its awareness of heightened sensitivities regarding religious freedom and security,” Onanuga said, adding that Nigerians should remain confident that urgent steps are being taken to improve national safety.

The announcement comes weeks after former U.S. President Donald Trump issued strong warnings over alleged attacks on Christians in Nigeria. In comments posted on Truth Social, Trump described the situation as a “mass slaughter” and threatened to halt U.S. assistance—and potentially deploy American forces—if the Nigerian government failed to act. He also named Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern.”

President Tinubu has since dismissed claims of genocide against Christians, reiterating Nigeria’s commitment to religious freedom and peaceful coexistence.