Nigeria, U.S. Renew Strategic Alliance, Set Sights on Expanded Security, Trade Cooperation

Nigeria and the United States on Monday reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their strategic partnership, with both countries pledging closer collaboration on security, trade, investment and regional stability during high-level talks in Abuja.

The renewed commitment came as the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, hosted the United States Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Frank Garcia, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Speaking during the meeting, Enikanolaiye said Nigeria places high value on its bilateral relationship with the United States, expressing confidence that the visit would further deepen cooperation and accelerate ongoing engagements between both nations.

He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to expanding cooperation in trade and investment, maritime security, counter-terrorism, intelligence sharing, and regional peace and security. The minister noted that both countries have recorded significant progress through the Nigeria–United States Joint Working Group and announced that preparations are underway for the next round of bilateral talks scheduled for Washington, D.C., in August 2026.

On security, the minister highlighted Nigeria’s efforts to combat terrorism through stronger law enforcement, prosecution of terrorism-related offences, enhanced protection of vulnerable communities, and sustained operations to secure the Gulf of Guinea and the Lake Chad Basin.

Addressing concerns over Nigeria’s security situation, Enikanolaiye maintained that while the country continues to face security challenges, these should not be interpreted as a policy of religious persecution or genocide. He stressed that the Federal Government remains committed to safeguarding all citizens regardless of religion or ethnicity while strengthening the rule of law.

In his remarks, Garcia described Nigeria as one of America’s most important strategic partners in Africa and praised the growing momentum in bilateral relations.

He said cooperation between both countries has continued to expand across trade, investment, healthcare, technology, maritime security and counter-terrorism, reflecting the United States’ commitment to strengthening economic partnerships across the continent.

The U.S. official also commended Nigeria’s leadership in improving maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea and its contributions to regional peace through the Multinational Joint Task Force. He reaffirmed Washington’s support for Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen its security institutions, promote stability and create economic opportunities.

At the end of the meeting, both sides agreed to maintain regular high-level consultations, deepen collaboration in areas of shared interest, expand people-to-people exchanges and continue addressing outstanding issues through constructive dialogue, reinforcing the enduring partnership between Nigeria and the United States.