Insecurity: Nigeria, US Deepen Military Ties on Counter-Terrorism, Intelligence Sharing

Nigeria and the United States are deepening military cooperation as both countries seek to strengthen efforts against terrorism and other security threats affecting Nigeria and the wider West African region.

Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to expanding defence relations with the United States during a meeting with Major General Matthew Brown, Commander of the US Army Southern European Task Force, Africa, in Abuja.

The meeting focused on reviewing ongoing joint security initiatives and developing a more results-oriented framework for future cooperation.

Musa expressed appreciation for continued US support, particularly in security operations in Nigeria’s North-East and the Lake Chad Basin. He said cooperation between both countries had contributed to improved operational capacity and troop morale.

The minister identified several areas for increased collaboration, including specialised training for Nigerian Special Forces, intelligence sharing, capacity building, border surveillance and security.

He also highlighted the need for greater support for counter-improvised explosive device operations and the modernisation of defence infrastructure.

The latest engagement builds on a broader Nigeria-US security partnership that has expanded during 2026.

Both countries established a Joint Working Group to strengthen cooperation in counter-terrorism, intelligence gathering, military relations, border security and other areas of national security.

The two sides have also held high-level meetings to review progress under the framework and identify practical measures for improving coordination between their security institutions.

In May, Nigerian and US forces carried out a joint counter-terrorism operation against ISIS-linked elements. Nigerian defence authorities subsequently described the operation as evidence of the importance of intelligence sharing and coordinated military action.

The United States has also provided military equipment and technical support to Nigeria as part of ongoing security cooperation.

The partnership comes as Nigeria continues to face threats from terrorist organisations, armed groups, kidnappers and other criminal networks operating across different parts of the country.

Musa said Nigeria remained committed to strengthening its own defence capabilities while working with international partners to address transnational security threats.

The United States has similarly emphasised support for Nigerian-led counter-terrorism efforts and capacity building.

The latest discussions are expected to contribute to further cooperation in intelligence, training, border security and defence modernisation as both countries work to improve their response to terrorism and violent extremism.