Trump Commends Tinubu’s Leadership Against Terrorism, Reaffirms US Security Support
By Nafiu Muhammad Lema
United States President Donald Trump has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as his decisive leadership in confronting terrorism and insecurity in Nigeria, while reaffirming America’s commitment to strengthening security cooperation with the country.
In a letter dated July 6, 2026, and made public by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga on Wednesday, Trump commended Tinubu’s efforts to address the security challenges affecting Nigeria, particularly attacks on Christian communities.
“Thank you for your thoughtful letter. Your kind words mean a great deal to me, and I appreciate your decisive leadership on behalf of the Nigerian people,” Trump wrote.
“I applaud your resolve to tackle the issues plaguing your nation, especially the violence affecting Christian communities, and it is a true honor to stand with you in the fight against terrorists and to make the Federal Republic of Nigeria stronger and more prosperous.” The US President added.
According to the Presidential Spokesman, Nigeria and the United States have significantly expanded their security partnership in recent months, particularly through the Joint Working Group established by both leaders in November 2025 and co-chaired by the National Security Advisers of both countries.
The collaboration has focused on intelligence sharing, military training, and joint operations aimed at degrading terrorist networks operating in Nigeria and the Lake Chad region.
One of the major successes highlighted by the Presidency was the coordinated operation carried out on May 16 against ISIS hideouts in the Lake Chad area, which reportedly led to the elimination of the group’s top commander, Abubakar Al-Minoki, along with several of his lieutenants.
Trump also underscored the strategic importance of the bilateral relationship amid growing security threats across West Africa.
“The United States-Nigeria relationship is crucial at a time where conflict has spread across West Africa and around the world. We both share a mutual goal of confronting terrorism in all its forms,” he stated.
The US President further referenced the US-Nigeria 2026 Defence Cooperation Roadmap, describing it as a robust framework for deepening collaboration between both countries.
He also revealed that the United States had deployed Special Operations Forces to train and support Nigerian troops.
“I am proud to have deployed the United States Special Operations Forces—among the most elite military units anywhere in the world—to equip the brave men and women in the Armed Forces of Nigeria with the skills, tools and intelligence they need to protect your homeland and ensure the safety and security of citizens,” Trump said.
He concluded by expressing optimism about continued engagement with President Tinubu throughout his administration.
The Presidency noted that the latest correspondence reflects the growing strategic partnership between Abuja and Washington, following the recent visit of US Assistant Secretary of State for Africa, Frank Garcia, who pledged deeper cooperation with Nigeria on security and other areas of mutual interest.
