Trump commends Tinubu's resolve against terrorism, vows US support for Nigeria

U.S. President Donald Trump has lauded Nigerian President Bola Tinubu's resolve in addressing the nation's challenges, particularly the violence impacting Christian communities. In a letter dated July 6, 2026, Trump conveyed that it is an honor to stand with Tinubu's administration in the fight against terrorists and in efforts to make Nigeria stronger and more prosperous.

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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.

Trump acknowledged Tinubu's decisive leadership and applauded his commitment to tackling the issues plaguing Nigeria. "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," the letter read.

The U.S. president emphasized the crucial nature of the U.S.-Nigeria relationship, especially as conflict spreads globally. He noted a shared goal of confronting terrorism and highlighted the U.S.-Nigeria 2026 Defence Cooperation Roadmap as a framework for achieving this. Trump expressed pride in deploying U.S. Special Operations Forces to equip the Nigerian Armed Forces with the necessary skills, tools, and intelligence to protect their homeland and ensure citizen safety, particularly for vulnerable faith communities.

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The United States–Nigeria relationship is crucial at a time when conflict has spread across West Africa and around the world.

This collaboration builds on previous agreements, including the establishment of a Joint Working Group co-chaired by the national security advisers of both nations. This group has facilitated steps such as training, intelligence sharing, and joint operations. A significant outcome was the coordinated May 16 attack on ISIS hideouts in the Lake Chad area, which resulted in the elimination of the group's leader, Abubakar Al-Minoki, and several lieutenants.

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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.

Further strengthening ties, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Africa, Frank Garcia, recently visited Abuja to pledge enhanced cooperation in security and other areas. Trump looks forward to continued discussions with President Tinubu throughout his term, underscoring a commitment to deepening the partnership between the two countries.

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I look forward to our continued discussions over the course of my presidency.