United States President Donald Trump has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as his decisive leadership in tackling terrorism and insecurity in Nigeria, particularly attacks affecting Christian communities.
In a letter dated July 6, 2026, and released by the Presidency on Wednesday, Trump commended Tinubu’s efforts to address the country’s security challenges, expressing the United States’ commitment to supporting Nigeria in the fight against terrorism.
“Your kind words mean a great deal to me, and I appreciate your decisive leadership on behalf of the Nigerian people. I applaud your resolve to tackle the issues plaguing your nation, especially the violence affecting Christian communities,” Trump wrote.
He added that it was “a true honour” to stand with Nigeria in combating terrorists and strengthening the country’s security and prosperity.
The letter highlighted the growing security partnership between Nigeria and the United States. It recalled that both leaders agreed in November 2025 to establish a Joint Working Group, co-chaired by the National Security Advisers of both countries, to enhance cooperation through intelligence sharing, military training, and joint operations.
According to the Presidency, one of the major outcomes of the collaboration was the coordinated operation carried out on May 16 against ISIS hideouts in the Lake Chad region, during which the group’s top commander, Abubakar Al-Minoki, and several of his lieutenants were killed.
Trump also referenced the US-Nigeria 2026 Defence Cooperation Roadmap, describing it as a strong framework for confronting terrorism amid growing security threats across West Africa.
He said the United States had deployed Special Operations Forces to train and support the Nigerian Armed Forces with the skills, equipment, and intelligence needed to combat terrorism and protect civilians.
The US President expressed optimism about continued cooperation between both countries throughout his administration.
The Presidency also noted that US Assistant Secretary of State for Africa, Frank Garcia, recently visited Abuja, where he met with senior Nigerian government officials and reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in security and other strategic areas.
