Nigeria, US Deepen Defence Partnership to Tackle Terrorism, Regional Security Threats
…CDS reaffirms Armed Forces’ commitment to stronger military cooperation as US envoy pledges sustained support
By Pan Afric Reporters
Nigeria and the United States have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening defence cooperation aimed at combating terrorism, violent extremism and other emerging security threats, with both countries pledging to strengthen military collaboration, intelligence sharing and regional security partnerships.
The renewed commitment was made during a courtesy visit by the United States Assistant Secretary for African Affairs, Mr. Frank Garcia, to the Defence Headquarters in Abuja, where the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, reiterated the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s resolve to sustain and expand the long-standing strategic defence relationship with the United States.
The development was disclosed in a press statement issued by the Defence Headquarters and signed by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, on July 14, 2026.
Representing the Chief of Defence Staff at the meeting, the Chief of Defence Policy and Plans, Air Vice Marshal Francis Edosa, welcomed the American delegation and described Nigeria’s defence relationship with the United States as one built on mutual respect, shared democratic values and a common commitment to regional and global peace.
He commended the United States for its sustained support to Nigeria in the areas of military training, intelligence sharing, counter-terrorism operations and institutional capacity development.
According to him, the changing security environment across Africa requires stronger international partnerships to effectively confront terrorism, violent extremism, transnational organised crime and other evolving security challenges.
“The evolving security landscape across Africa demands stronger international collaboration. Strategic partnerships remain essential in addressing terrorism, violent extremism, transnational organised crime and other emerging security threats,” Air Vice Marshal Edosa stated on behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff.
He expressed confidence that the visit would further strengthen bilateral defence cooperation and open new opportunities for collaboration in areas of mutual strategic interest.
The Defence Headquarters also reaffirmed the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s commitment to professionalism, regional stability and sustained engagement in promoting lasting peace and security within Nigeria and across the African continent.
In his remarks, the United States Assistant Secretary for African Affairs, Mr. Frank Garcia, thanked the Defence Headquarters for the warm reception and reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to strengthening its strategic relationship with Nigeria.
Garcia acknowledged Nigeria’s leadership role in promoting peace, stability and security in West Africa and across the continent, describing the country as a critical partner in regional security efforts.
He commended the Armed Forces of Nigeria for their resilience and sacrifices in the fight against terrorism and other security threats.
“The United States remains committed to strengthening its strategic relationship with Nigeria through enhanced defence cooperation, security assistance and strategic dialogue,” Garcia said.
He assured the Defence Headquarters of continued American support aimed at enhancing defence cooperation, security assistance and institutional partnerships.
Both sides also exchanged views on prevailing regional security issues and explored additional areas of collaboration to advance shared security objectives and strengthen efforts towards ensuring peace and stability in Nigeria, West Africa and the wider African continent.
