By Abiola Olawale
The Nigerian Presidency has announced a breakthrough in security cooperation with the United States, confirming that the US government has agreed to provide enhanced intelligence support and essential defence equipment to bolster Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and violent groups.
It was gathered that the development follows high-level engagements with key US officials after US President Donald Trump redesignated Niferia as a Country of Particular Concern over alleged Christian genocide.
The delegation, led by the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, had met with senior officials across the US Congress, the White House Faith Office, the State Department, the National Security Council, and the Department of War.
Members of the delegation included the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi; Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede; Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lieutenant General Emmanuel Undiandeye; the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; and two representatives of the Office of the National Security Adviser.
According to a statement issued on Monday by the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, during the engagements in Washington, DC, the Nigerian delegation refuted allegations of genocide in Nigeria, emphasising that violent attacks affect families and communities across religious and ethnic lines.
The delegation also rejected the wrongful framing of the situation, saying such a portrayal would only divide Nigerians and distort the realities on the ground.
The statement reads in part: “The discussions provided ample opportunity to correct misconceptions about Nigeria, forged a constructive, solution-driven partnership with the United States, reinforced mutual trust, and advanced a coordinated approach to protecting vulnerable communities, especially in the Middle Belt.
“The United States also expressed its willingness to extend complementary support, including humanitarian assistance to affected populations in the Middle Belt and technical support to strengthen early-warning mechanisms.
“The Federal Government restates its awareness of heightened sensitivities regarding religious freedom and security, and urges citizens to remain assured that firm, urgent, and coordinated steps are being taken to secure the nation.”
