Nigeria and the United States have officially inaugurated a United States–Nigeria Joint Working Group on Security in Abuja, marking a significant step in bilateral cooperation on counter-terrorism, civilian protection and broader security challenges facing Nigeria. The event — hosted by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) — brought together senior officials from both countries to launch structured collaboration aimed at enhancing operational coordination and addressing persistent threats from insurgent groups and violent crime.
The Working Group was inaugurated on January 22, 2026, and co-chaired by Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the United States Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, Allison Hooker. It is part of ongoing efforts to deepen security relations following a series of high-level engagements pursued since November 2025, when both countries agreed to intensify cooperation after Nigeria’s Country of Particular Concern designation by the U.S. under the International Religious Freedom Act.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu earlier approved the establishment of the Nigerian side of the Working Group, affirming the federal government’s commitment to operationalising agreements reached during diplomatic discussions in Washington, D.C. Ribadu is leading Nigeria’s delegation, backed by senior representatives from key ministries and security institutions, including the Ministries of Defence, Interior, Foreign Affairs and the Inspector-General of Police.
At the inauguration, Ribadu highlighted that Nigeria-U.S. security cooperation has already produced tangible operational results, including enhanced intelligence sharing, coordinated counter-terrorism planning, and improved situational awareness across multiple theatres of operation. He said the partnership has moved beyond dialogue to action, strengthening interactions between Nigerian security agencies and U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), and supporting targeted operations against terror networks and criminal elements.
Under Secretary Hooker underscored that the partnership is built on shared interests in improving peace and stability, stressing the need to protect civilians — especially vulnerable communities — and uphold freedoms of religion, expression and assembly. She said discussions during the Working Group’s first plenary meeting focused on joint measures to deter violence, promote justice, disrupt supply lines funding extremists and build capacity for investigations and prosecutions related to attacks.
The inaugural meeting also occurred amid growing concerns over complex security threats in Nigeria, including insurgency, banditry, and religion-linked violence that have displaced thousands and prompted regional instability. Both sides reaffirmed their joint commitment to protect all Nigerians, regardless of faith or background, and to ensure that security efforts integrate respect for human rights with operational effectiveness.
In addition to enhancing counter-terrorism cooperation, the Working Group’s agenda includes improving civilian protection strategies, strengthening intelligence capabilities, and coordinating on anti-money-laundering efforts to cut off financial flows feeding violent groups. Officials also stressed the importance of building robust early-warning systems and rapid-response mechanisms to support evidence-based decision-making.
Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, noted that the partnership reflects a mature and results-oriented strategic relationship grounded in mutual trust and respect for sovereignty. He said the cooperation extends to joint actions in ongoing operations, including Operation Hadin Kai and Operation Fasan Yamma, which are focused on degrading terrorist and criminal networks.
The establishment of the U.S.–Nigeria Joint Working Group on Security signals a renewed phase of bilateral engagement, emphasising sustained cooperation to address the root causes of insecurity and promote stability in Nigeria and the wider West African region. Both countries intend to build on the foundation laid at the inaugural session and expand collaborative efforts in future meetings.
