US, Nigeria Deepen Cooperation Against Terror Groups
The United States has called for stronger and sustained action against terror groups operating in Nigeria, as both countries deepen security cooperation to tackle insecurity and violent extremism.
The call was made on Thursday in Abuja by the US Under Secretary for Political Affairs, Allison Hooker, during the inauguration of the US–Nigeria Joint Working Group on Security held at the Office of the National Security Adviser.
Hooker said the security partnership between Washington and Abuja had intensified in recent months, with both sides engaging more closely on counterterrorism, intelligence sharing, and accountability for violent attacks.
She noted that the United States and Nigeria were working together to deter violence, disrupt terror networks, investigate attacks, and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice, particularly in areas affected by recurring insecurity.
According to her, recent cooperation has yielded tangible outcomes, including coordinated counterterrorism operations, enhanced intelligence exchange, and increased capacity for law enforcement agencies. She cited Nigeria’s approval for the recruitment of 20,000 additional police officers as part of efforts to strengthen internal security.
Hooker also acknowledged progress in ongoing security operations, including arrests linked to recent attacks and the rescue of abducted persons, while stressing that sustained action remains necessary to prevent further violence and displacement.
She added that discussions within the joint working group would also focus on improving civilian protection, supporting affected communities, disrupting the flow of arms and funding to terror groups, and strengthening investigations and prosecutions related to mass violence.
US Under Secretary for Political Affairs, Allison Hooker
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In his welcome remark, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, describing terrorism and violent extremism as threats to national stability and sovereignty.
Ribadu said the Federal Government had intensified military and intelligence operations across affected regions, strengthened collaboration with international partners, and expanded efforts to dismantle terror networks and criminal groups.
He added that progress should be measured by long-term improvements in security capacity and sustained outcomes, rather than isolated successes, assuring that Nigeria remains committed to deepening cooperation with the United States in the fight against terrorism.
Also speaking, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the partnership was yielding measurable gains and urged Nigerians to remain patient as security reforms take root.
Idris said President Bola Tinubu had declared security emergencies in high-risk areas, authorised intensified joint operations, and approved sustained deployment of forces to communities facing repeated attacks.
He added that the government was developing a national database on deaths and casualties arising from violence to strengthen accountability and evidence-based security responses.
The US Under Secretary for Political Affairs, Allison Hooker, reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to degrading terrorist capabilities, interdicting weapons and funding, and supporting Nigeria’s efforts to restore displaced persons to their communities.
Both sides expressed optimism that the strengthened partnership would deliver improved security, justice for victims, and lasting protection for all Nigerians.
The joint working group is expected to continue engagements aimed at strengthening bilateral security relations and addressing the root causes of insecurity in Nigeria.
By PRNigeria
