Trump Commends Tinubu’s Leadership, Reaffirms US Support for Nigeria’s Fight Against Terrorism
United States President Donald Trump has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as his decisive leadership in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges, while reaffirming America’s commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in the fight against terrorism.
In a letter dated July 6, 2026, President Trump praised Tinubu’s efforts to confront insecurity and promote national stability, expressing support for Nigeria’s ongoing campaign against terrorist groups.
According to the letter, Trump acknowledged the Nigerian President’s determination to address issues affecting the country, including violent attacks on communities, and pledged continued collaboration between both nations to enhance security and prosperity.
“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. I applaud your resolve to tackle the issues plaguing your nation… It is a true honour to stand with you in the fight against terrorists and to make the Federal Republic of Nigeria stronger and more prosperous,” the US President stated.
Trump described the relationship between the United States and Nigeria as critical, particularly at a time when security threats continue to affect parts of West Africa.
He noted that the US-Nigeria 2026 Defence Cooperation Roadmap has created a strong framework for joint efforts against terrorism through enhanced military cooperation, intelligence sharing, training and other security initiatives.
The US President also highlighted the deployment of American Special Operations Forces to support the Armed Forces of Nigeria with training, intelligence and operational capabilities aimed at strengthening the country’s counter-terrorism efforts.
The letter comes amid growing security cooperation between Abuja and Washington.
In November 2025, Presidents Tinubu and Trump agreed to establish a Joint Working Group, co-chaired by the National Security Advisers of both countries, to deepen defence collaboration and coordinate counter-terrorism operations.
One of the major outcomes of the partnership was the May 16, 2026 coordinated operation against ISIS hideouts in the Lake Chad region, which reportedly resulted in the elimination of senior terrorist leader Abubakar Al-Minoki and several of his associates.
Last week, the US Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Frank Garcia, visited Abuja, where he held discussions with senior Nigerian government officials and reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to expanding cooperation with Nigeria in security, economic development and other strategic sectors.
President Trump concluded his message by expressing optimism about continued engagement with President Tinubu throughout his administration, describing the partnership between both countries as vital to regional peace, stability and shared prosperity.
The letter was made public on Wednesday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga.
Trump Commends Tinubu’s Leadership, Reaffirms US Support for Nigeria’s Fight Against Terrorism