A high-level Nigerian delegation’s engagements with United States officials in Washington, DC, have strengthened security partnerships between the two countries, leading to new cooperation avenues for protecting Nigerian citizens. The discussions refuted allegations of genocide and highlighted the broad impact of violent attacks across religious and ethnic lines.

Special Adviser to the President (Information and Strategy) Bayo Onanuga in a statement said the delegation, led by National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, met with senior US officials across the US Congress, the White House Faith Office, the State Department, the National Security Council, and the Department of War. Onanuga stated that the Nigerian delegation emphasized violent attacks affect all communities and rejected wrongful framing of the situation, which they said would divide Nigerians and distort realities. “The delegation strongly rejected wrongful framing of the situation, saying such would only divide Nigerians and distort the realities on the ground,” Onanuga said.

The United States Government affirmed its readiness to deepen security cooperation with Nigeria, including enhanced intelligence support, expedited processing of defence equipment requests, and potential provision of excess defence articles to reinforce operations against terrorists and violent extremist groups. Onanuga further noted that the US expressed willingness to extend complementary support, such as humanitarian assistance to affected populations in the Middle Belt and technical support for early-warning mechanisms.

Both countries agreed to implement immediately a non-binding cooperation framework and establish a Joint Working Group for a unified approach. In return, the Nigerian delegation reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening civilian protection measures. Onanuga added that the discussions corrected misconceptions, forged a constructive partnership, reinforced mutual trust, and advanced coordinated protection for vulnerable communities, especially in the Middle Belt.

The Federal Government is aware of heightened sensitivities regarding religious freedom and security and urges citizens to remain assured that firm, urgent, and coordinated steps are being taken to secure the nation. The delegation included Prince Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, Attorney General of the Federation; Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, Inspector General of Police; General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff; Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Parker Undiandeye, Chief of Defence Intelligence; Ms. Idayat Hassan, Special Adviser to the NSA; and Ambassador Ibrahim Babani, Director of Foreign Relations at the Office of the National Security Adviser.