How we’re collaborating to defeat terrorists - Nigeria, US militaries

The Nigerian military and the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) have pledged to strengthen their collaboration in the fight against terrorism. This renewed commitment emphasizes intelligence sharing, joint operations, and capacity building as core components of their partnership.

The alliance operates under the U.S.-Nigeria Joint Working Group framework, established following discussions about security concerns in Nigeria. AFRICOM's Director of Public Affairs, Colonel Rebecca Heyse, stated that the cooperation is founded on "mutual interests and respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty." She added, "We operate strictly by invitation and under the U.S.-Nigeria Joint Working Group framework."

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Our operations and cooperation with Nigeria are rooted in fundamental respect for Nigerian sovereignty. We operate strictly by invitation and under the U.S.-Nigeria Joint Working Group framework.

Major General Samiala Uba, spokesperson for Nigeria's Defence Headquarters, indicated that the scope and duration of U.S. involvement will be dictated by Nigeria's operational needs. "The cooperation is at the instance of Nigeria. The competencies, specialized capabilities and expertise the United States brings are things we require, and as long as we require them, we will continue to work together under the Joint Working Group framework," he explained.

While the partnership aims to address shared security threats, Heyse deflected questions regarding the U.S. government's current stance on alleged Christian genocide in Nigeria. The collaboration continues as long as both nations deem it beneficial for tackling terrorism and other security challenges.

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The cooperation is at the instance of Nigeria. The competencies, specialised capabilities and expertise the United States brings are things we require, and as long as we require them, we will continue to work together under the Joint Working Group framework.