US Vows Closer Defence Cooperation as Nigeria Debunks Genocide Allegations
The Presidency says the United States Government has restated its readiness to strengthen security cooperation with Nigeria. This includes providing more intelligence support, defence equipment, and other assistance to help Nigeria’s fight against terrorists and violent extremist groups.
This followed a series of meetings held last week between a high-level Nigerian delegation and top US officials aimed at deepening security ties and exploring new areas of partnership.
The Nigerian team was led by the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu. Others on the delegation were the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi; Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede; Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lieutenant General Emmanuel Undiandeye; Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; and two senior officials from the Office of the NSA.
According to a statement released on Monday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, the delegation met officials from the US Congress, the White House Faith Office, the State Department, the National Security Council, and the Department of War.
During the meetings, the Nigerian officials dismissed claims of genocide in the country, saying violent attacks affect people of all religions and ethnic groups. They said such false narratives only create division and misrepresent the real situation.
Onanuga said the discussions helped clear misconceptions about Nigeria and strengthened cooperation with the US on protecting vulnerable communities, especially in the Middle Belt. The US also expressed willingness to offer humanitarian aid to affected areas and provide technical support for early-warning systems.
Both countries agreed to immediately begin work under a new, non-binding cooperation framework and to set up a Joint Working Group to coordinate agreed areas of partnership. The Nigerian delegation also restated the government’s commitment to protecting civilians.
The statement comes weeks after former US President Donald Trump threatened to send American forces into Nigeria, accusing the Nigerian government of lallowing the “killing of Christians”. He warned that the US could cut off aid or intervene militarily.
President Bola Tinubu has rejected these claims, insisting that Nigeria remains committed to religious freedom and peaceful coexistence.
