Trump Pledges US Support for Nigeria's Anti-Terrorism Efforts in Letter to Tinubu

Former US President Donald Trump has responded to Nigerian President Bola Tinubu's correspondence, affirming the United States' commitment to supporting Nigeria's counter-terrorism efforts. The letter, shared by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, was dated July 6 and conveyed Trump's appreciation for Tinubu's "decisive leadership on behalf of the Nigerian people."

“

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's message specifically lauded Tinubu's determination to tackle issues plaguing Nigeria, with a particular mention of the violence impacting Christian communities. "It is a true honour to stand with you in the fight against these terrorists and to make the Federal Republic of Nigeria stronger and more prosperous," Trump wrote, signaling a positive shift in US-Nigeria relations under his previous administration, which had previously designated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern.

“

I applaud your resolve to tackle the issues plaguing your nation, especially the violence affecting Christian communities.

The US-Nigeria relationship has seen recent improvements, marked by close cooperation on security challenges. A significant development was the establishment of a Joint Working Group, co-headed by the National Security Advisers of both nations. This collaboration has led to agreed-upon steps including training, intelligence sharing, and joint operations aimed at curbing terrorist activities. A notable success was a coordinated attack on ISIS hideouts in the Lake Chad area on May 16, resulting in the elimination of the group's leader, Abubakar Al-Minoki, and several lieutenants.

“

It is a true honour to stand with you in the fight against these terrorists and to make the Federal Republic of Nigeria stronger and more prosperous.