Nigeria, US Reaffirm Commitment To Stronger Strategic Partnership

Nigeria and the United States have reaffirmed commitment to strengthening their long-standing strategic partnership, with renewed emphasis on trade, investment, security, and regional stability.

This was the outcome of 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, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja.

Ambassador Enikanolaiye said Nigeria places great importance on its bilateral relationship with the United States and expressed optimism that the visit would further deepen cooperation in key sectors.

He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to expanding collaboration in trade and investment, maritime security, counter-terrorism, intelligence sharing, and regional peace and security.

The Minister also highlighted the progress made through the Nigeria–United States Joint Working Group and disclosed that preparations are underway for the next bilateral engagement scheduled to hold in Washington, D.C., in August 2026.

On security, Ambassador Enikanolaiye said the Federal Government remains committed to tackling insecurity through stronger law enforcement, prosecution of terrorism-related offences, protection of vulnerable communities, and sustained efforts to secure the Gulf of Guinea and the Lake Chad Basin.

Addressing migration and consular issues, he stressed that although Nigeria faces security challenges, they should not be interpreted as a policy of religious persecution or genocide. He maintained that the government remains committed to protecting all citizens, irrespective of religion or ethnicity, while strengthening the rule of law.

In his remarks, the United States Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Frank Garcia, described Nigeria as one of America’s most important strategic partners in Africa.

He commended the growing cooperation between both countries in trade, investment, health, technology, maritime security, and counter-terrorism, noting that the partnership aligns with the United States’ objective of expanding commercial engagement across Africa.

Mr. Garcia also praised Nigeria’s leadership in improving maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea and acknowledged its role in promoting regional stability through the Multinational Joint Task Force.

He reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to supporting Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen security institutions, promote peace and stability, and create greater economic opportunities.

Both countries agreed to sustain high-level consultations, deepen cooperation in areas of mutual interest, promote people-to-people exchanges, and continue resolving outstanding issues through constructive dialogue.

PR/Uju Oparaji