National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu has hosted a United States Congressional delegation in Abuja, marking a continuation of security consultations between Nigeria and the US. The visit comes after previous discussions in Washington, DC, focused on shared security interests.
Sharing details on his X handle, Ribadu said the delegation was on a fact-finding mission to Nigeria. “This morning, I received a US Congressional delegation following our earlier engagements in Washington, DC, on shared security priorities,” he wrote. The US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, was also present, underscoring the significance both nations attach to the dialogue.
The meeting centered on counter-terrorism cooperation, regional stability, and ways to strengthen the strategic security partnership between the two countries. Ribadu expressed optimism that the engagement would deepen trust and enhance collaboration in promoting peace and security.
This diplomatic engagement comes amid heightened tensions after the US President redesignated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern over alleged religious freedom violations, a move accompanied by discussions of potential US military involvement. The Nigerian government has consistently dismissed claims of systemic religious persecution, emphasizing that insecurity affects citizens across all faiths.
In pursuit of international support, the Federal Government has continued engaging global partners on security issues. On November 20, Ribadu met with US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth at the Pentagon to discuss coordinated strategies for addressing the security challenges facing Nigeria and other regions globally.
