US President Donald Trump has commended his Nigerian counterpart Bola Tinubu for his efforts in tackling terrorism and violence against Christian communities in West Africa.
In a letter released by the Nigerian presidency on Wednesday, Mr. Trump praised Mr. Tinubu’s resolve and reaffirmed Washington’s support for the country’s armed forces.
The letter, dated 6 July 2026, highlighted growing military cooperation between the two nations following the establishment of a joint defence roadmap earlier this year.
Special forces deployment
In his letter, Mr. Trump noted that elite US Special Operations Forces have been deployed to assist the Nigerian military with training, intelligence, and equipment.
“I applaud your resolve to tackle the issues plaguing your nation, especially the violence affecting Christian communities,” Mr Trump wrote.
“I am proud to have deployed the United States Special Operations Forces… 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.”
The US president added that the partnership was critical at a time when conflict and insecurity have spread across West Africa.
Deepening defence ties
According to a statement from presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, security relations between Abuja and Washington have intensified in recent months under a joint working group co-chaired by both national security advisers.
The collaboration led to a joint operation on 16 May targeting ISIS hideouts in the Lake Chad region, which Nigerian officials say resulted in the death of senior commander Abubakar Al-Minoki and several lieutenants.
The release of the letter follows a visit to Abuja last week by US Assistant Secretary of State for Africa Frank Garcia, who met senior officials to pledge further support for regional stability and counter-terrorism initiatives.
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