The United States has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening security cooperation with Nigeria, with President Donald Trump confirming the deployment of U.S. Special Operations Forces to support the Armed Forces of Nigeria in the fight against terrorism.
In an official letter addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and dated July 6, 2026, Trump praised the Nigerian leader’s efforts to address the country’s security challenges and reaffirmed Washington’s support for Abuja.
“Thank you for your thoughtful letter. Your kind words mean a great deal to me, and I appreciate your decisive leadership on behalf of the Nigerian people,” Trump wrote.
The U.S. President commended Tinubu’s determination to confront violent extremism, particularly attacks affecting Christian communities.
“I applaud your resolve to tackle the issues plaguing your nation, especially the violence affecting Christian communities, and it is a true honor to stand with you in the fight against terrorists and to make the Federal Republic of Nigeria stronger and more prosperous,” he stated.
Trump noted that the United States and Nigeria share a common objective of combating terrorism amid growing insecurity across West Africa.
“The United States–Nigeria relationship is crucial at a time when conflict has spread across West Africa and around the world,” he added.
The renewed partnership is anchored on the US–Nigeria 2026 Defence Cooperation Roadmap, which Trump described as a major framework for expanding military collaboration between both countries.
According to the U.S. President, American Special Operations Forces have already been deployed to help train and support Nigerian troops.
“We both share a mutual goal of confronting terrorism in all its forms, and our historic US–Nigeria 2026 Defence Cooperation Roadmap has established a robust framework to accomplish this feat,” Trump said.
“I am proud to have deployed United States Special Operations Forces—among the most elite military units anywhere in the world—to equip the brave men and women of the Armed Forces of Nigeria with the skills, tools and intelligence they need to protect your homeland and ensure the safety and security of citizens, particularly those of faith who have been under attack.”
Trump also expressed optimism about continued collaboration between both governments, saying he looks forward to further discussions with President Tinubu throughout his presidency.
The latest diplomatic exchange signals a renewed commitment by both nations to strengthen defence cooperation, intelligence sharing, and counterterrorism operations as Nigeria continues to confront security threats across several regions of the country.
