By Zainab Bakare
Nigeria and the United States have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral relations, with both countries pledging closer cooperation in security, trade, investment and regional stability.
The commitment was made on Monday in Abuja during a meeting between the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, and the United States Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Frank Garcia.
According to a statement by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, Ambassador Enikanolaiye say Nigeria remains committed to expanding collaboration with the US in trade and investment, maritime security, counter-terrorism, intelligence sharing, and regional peace and security.
The minister also highlighted progress made through the Nigeria–US Joint Working Group ahead of its next meeting scheduled for August 2026 in Washington, D.C., describing the platform as a key mechanism for advancing strategic cooperation between both countries.
On security, Enikanolaiye said the Federal Government would continue to intensify efforts to tackle insecurity through stronger law enforcement, prosecution of terrorism-related offences, protection of vulnerable communities, and enhanced security operations in the Gulf of Guinea and the Lake Chad Basin.
He also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to sustained dialogue on migration and consular matters, stressing that while the country faces security challenges, they should not be misconstrued as government-sponsored religious persecution or genocide.
He maintained that the government remains committed to protecting the rights and safety of all citizens, irrespective of religion or ethnicity.
In his remarks, Garcia described Nigeria as one of the United States’ most important strategic partners in Africa, applauding the growing collaboration between both nations in trade, investment, healthcare, technology, maritime security and counter-terrorism.
He further commended Nigeria’s leadership in enhancing security in the Gulf of Guinea and its contributions to regional stability through the Multinational Joint Task Force, reaffirming Washington’s support for Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen security institutions, promote peace and expand economic opportunities.
Both countries agreed to sustain regular high-level engagements, broaden people-to-people exchanges and deepen cooperation in areas of mutual interest while resolving outstanding issues through continued dialogue, underscoring their shared commitment to a stronger and more strategic partnership.
