The Presidency has disclosed details of the strategic discussions held during the recent three-day working visit of Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, to the United States, highlighting renewed commitments toward deeper security and diplomatic cooperation between both countries.

Ribadu’s visit, which took place from May 4 to May 6, involved meetings with top-ranking American officials as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral relations and address growing security concerns across West Africa and the Sahel region.

In a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the Presidency explained that the engagements focused heavily on counterterrorism, intelligence sharing, regional stability, and democratic governance.

Tinubu Makes Fresh Appointment

Among the senior officials Ribadu reportedly met were United States Vice President J.D. Vance, Acting National Security Adviser and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Undersecretary for Political Affairs Allison Hooker, and Assistant Secretary of War Daniel Zimmerim.

According to the Presidency, the meetings provided an avenue for both nations to review the current state of Nigeria–United States relations and explore new ways to improve strategic cooperation.

Onanuga stated that discussions centered on combating terrorism, violent extremism, cybercrime, and transnational organized crime—major threats affecting the West African sub-region and beyond.

The NSA reportedly stressed the urgent need for sustained international collaboration to address the rapidly evolving security challenges facing the Sahel and the Lake Chad Basin. He reiterated Nigeria’s role as a frontline state in regional counterterrorism operations and peace-building efforts.

Ribadu also assured U.S. officials that Nigeria remains fully committed to promoting stability, democratic governance, and economic development throughout Africa. He highlighted the country’s continued leadership in regional security initiatives and peacekeeping operations.

The Presidency further explained that both countries reviewed progress made under the Nigeria–U.S. Joint Working Group (JWG), a framework established to coordinate structured bilateral cooperation on security and strategic matters.

During the engagements, practical measures were discussed to improve the implementation of existing agreements, particularly in areas such as military cooperation, border security, intelligence exchange, strategic communications, and institutional capacity development.

Nigeria Pushes Whole-of-Government Security Strategy

Ribadu also briefed U.S. officials on the Tinubu administration’s ongoing security reforms and operational measures aimed at tackling insecurity across Nigeria.

He explained that the government is adopting a “whole-of-government” strategy that combines military operations with non-kinetic measures such as economic development, community engagement, deradicalization programs, and regional partnerships.

According to the statement, U.S. officials commended Nigeria’s efforts and acknowledged the country’s importance as one of America’s key strategic partners in Africa.

The meetings concluded with both nations reaffirming their commitment to democratic values, regional stability, and sustainable peace across West Africa and the Sahel.

The Presidency added that Nigeria and the United States expressed optimism about the future of their partnership and pledged to maintain close cooperation in addressing shared regional and global challenges.

The visit is seen as part of broader efforts by the Nigerian government to deepen international alliances amid rising security concerns across the region.