Tinubu Approves Key Members for US-Nigeria Security Group

President Bola Tinubu has formally approved the Nigerian members of the US-Nigeria Joint Working Group, a pivotal move to enhance bilateral efforts against the country’s security threats. National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu will head the team, drawing from agreements sealed during his recent high-level delegation to Washington, DC. This initiative promises closer intelligence sharing, quicker defence equipment access, and potential surplus US military hardware to combat terrorists and extremists. ​

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The group unites top officials across defence, foreign affairs, and intelligence sectors. Key members include Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Humanitarian Affairs Minister Bernard M. Doro, Chief of Defence Staff Olufemi Oluyede, National Intelligence Agency Director-General Mohammed Mohammed, and Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun. Ms Idayat Hassan from the NSA’s office and Paul Alabi from Nigeria’s US embassy will manage secretariat duties. ​

Tinubu directed the team to collaborate intensely with US partners for rapid rollout of pacts spanning counter-terrorism and stability. The push follows US concerns over attacks on Christian communities and jihadist activities in West Africa, voiced in Pentagon talks between Ribadu and US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. Recent US designations of Nigeria over religious freedoms have intensified the need for this partnership. ​