By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
Nigeria and the United States have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening security cooperation as the country continues to confront persistent and evolving security challenges across multiple regions.
The renewed partnership followed a high-level visit to Abuja by the Commander of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), General Anderson, on February 8–9, according to a press release issued by Major General Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information.
During the visit, General Anderson was received by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Minister of Defence General Christopher Musa (Retired), Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, and other senior officials.
Nigeria is grappling with a range of security threats, including terrorism in the North-East, banditry and mass kidnappings in the North-West and North-Central regions, separatist violence in the South-East, and maritime insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea.
These challenges continue to place significant pressure on national security institutions and affect economic and social stability.
According to the statement by the Director of Defence Information, discussions during the visit focused on shared security interests and deepening cooperation in countering terrorist and violent extremist groups that threaten Nigeria, the region, and the international community.
The leaders also reviewed military training programs and laid the groundwork for future force development, real-world operational training, joint exercises, and other specialized capabilities that the United States can provide to support Nigeria’s security efforts.
As part of the engagement, General Anderson visited the joint U.S.–Nigeria intelligence fusion cell, which enhances Nigeria’s intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capacity and supports real-time operational decision-making.
Major General Uba noted that the AFRICOM Commander reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to supporting Nigerian-led solutions through intelligence sharing and technical advisory support aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s independent operational capability.
The visit highlights Nigeria’s central role in regional security and underscores the importance of international partnerships as the country works to address its complex and enduring security challenges.
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