Nigeria and the United States have reviewed their bilateral security cooperation, with discussions focusing on counter-terrorism efforts, the protection of internally displaced persons and vulnerable communities, border security and the next phase of defence collaboration between both countries.
The issues were discussed on Thursday at a meeting of the Nigeria-United States Joint Working Group in Washington, DC, according to a statement by Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu.
The Nigerian delegation to the meeting was led by the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, while the United States delegation was led by the Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, Allison Hooker.
The meeting examined progress made in bilateral counter-terrorism efforts and explored measures to strengthen cooperation in addressing security challenges confronting both countries.
The two sides also discussed the protection of internally displaced persons and other vulnerable communities, particularly those considered at risk of religiously motivated violence.
Another key area of discussion was the strengthening of border security measures to prevent the movement of illicit goods, resources and people across national borders.
The meeting further reviewed the existing Defence Roadmap between Nigeria and the United States and considered priorities for the next phase of security cooperation.
The engagement forms part of efforts by both countries to deepen strategic collaboration on security and other areas of mutual interest.
According to the statement, the first edition of the Nigeria-US Joint Working Group meeting was held in Abuja in January 2026.
That meeting was convened as part of ongoing efforts to scale up cooperation between Nigeria and the United States in tackling insecurity, reviewing counter-terrorism strategies and addressing issues surrounding the return and protection of internally displaced persons.
The Washington meeting therefore provides another platform for both countries to assess progress made since the Abuja engagement and identify areas requiring stronger coordination.
The discussions also underscore the growing focus on joint efforts to address cross-border security threats, protect vulnerable populations and strengthen Nigeria-US defence and counter-terrorism cooperation.
The meeting is expected to help shape the next phase of bilateral security collaboration between Nigeria and the United States.
