US Bolsters Ties with Nigeria on Security, Faith, Economy

Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker visited Abuja this week, engaging Nigerian leaders to fortify bilateral ties on critical fronts. The trip launched the inaugural US-Nigeria Joint Working Group, co-chaired by Hooker and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, focusing on counter-terrorism, civilian protection, and business expansion. US Mission Nigeria expressed gratitude for her participation alongside officials, religious figures, and American executives in discussions on safeguarding Christians and mutual goals.

Key Discussion Areas

The plenary addressed Nigeria’s “Country of Particular Concern” status over religious violence, with Hooker urging intensified protections for Christian communities amid incidents like recent Kaduna church abductions. Nigerian officials highlighted gains from US intelligence sharing, bolstering operations such as Hadin Kai against Boko Haram in the northeast and Fasan Yamma elsewhere.​ Commitments include timely US delivery of drones, helicopters, and surplus defense gear to enhance Nigeria’s capabilities.

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Economic and Security Pledges

Talks emphasized US private sector investments to create youth jobs, alongside trade and energy cooperation. President Bola Tinubu’s administration declared security emergencies in high-risk zones, ramping up joint operations and a national casualty database for better accountability. Information Minister Mohammed Idris noted three high-level US engagements since November 2025, signaling a robust partnership yielding operational results.​

Broader Context

Hooker’s January 21-29 tour extends to Oman, Bahrain, and Italy for similar strategic dialogues on global issues like Ukraine and Middle East peace. Attendees included top Nigerian figures like Defence Minister Christopher Musa and US representatives from AFRICOM and State Department bureaus.​ This mission underscores sustained US support for Nigeria’s stability in West Africa.