US President Donald Trump Commends Bola Tinubu’s Counter-Terrorism Efforts
US President Donald Trump sent a letter to Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu praising his
leadership in addressing terrorism and insecurity, with specific reference to protecting Christian
communities.
In the letter, Trump thanked Tinubu for a prior communication and expressed appreciation for his
“decisive leadership on behalf of the Nigerian people.”
He stated: “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 emphasized shared goals in confronting terrorism, highlighting the US-Nigeria 2026 Defence
Cooperation Roadmap.
This framework includes training Nigerian troops by US Special Operations Forces, along with provision
of tools and intelligence to protect citizens of faith.
The commendation follows earlier tensions in late 2025, when Trump designated Nigeria as a “Country
of Particular Concern” (CPC) over reported violence against Christians and threatened potential actions,
including aid cuts or military strikes.
Nigerian officials rejected characterizations of religious persecution as misrepresenting the country’s
realities while affirming commitment to fighting terrorism affecting all citizens.
Relations improved through diplomatic and security engagements. Key developments include:
** A Joint Working Group established in November 2025 focused on training and operations.
** A successful May 16, 2026 joint strike that eliminated Islamic State commander Abubakar Al-
Minoki (also referred to as Abu-Bilal al-Minuki) in the Lake Chad area. Trump publicly
acknowledged Nigeria’s partnership in this operation.
Recent US visits, including by Assistant Secretary Frank Garcia to Abuja, reinforced pledges of
cooperation.
President Tinubu’s administration has prioritized counter-terrorism, including appointments of new
service chiefs and ongoing operations against groups in the Northeast, Northwest, and other regions.
Nigerian statements consistently frame terrorism as a threat to all Nigerians, not solely one religious
group, while committing to protect worshippers of all faiths.
The July 6 letter signals a shift toward collaborative US-Nigeria security ties amid persistent challenges
from groups like ISWAP and others exploiting criminal activities for funding. This period note improved
intelligence sharing and joint actions.
By Oyinkansola Shittu.
