Nigeria and the United States are doubling down on their partnership, with both governments signaling a renewed push to work together on religious freedom and national security.
The message coming out of Abuja this week was clear: protecting vulnerable communities and bringing violent actors to justice is no longer just a talking point—it’s a shared priority.
Inside the First Joint Working Group Meeting
That commitment was captured in a joint statement released after the first session of the U.S.–Nigeria Joint Working Group, held in Abuja on Thursday.
The statement was signed by Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the U.S. team lead, Under Secretary of State Allison Hooker, marking a formal start to what both sides describe as a practical, action-driven engagement.
Why the Working Group Was Created
The Working Group itself was set up in response to Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern under the U.S. International Religious Freedom Act.
Rather than letting that label stall relations, both countries agreed to use it as a basis for honest dialogue and concrete cooperation—especially in tackling violence and safeguarding freedom of worship across Nigeria.
Focus on Safety and Freedom of Worship
Discussions during the meeting zeroed in on reducing violence, with particular attention on attacks against Christian communities, while reinforcing the principle that all Nigerians must be free to practice their faith without fear.
The talks also acknowledged the broader goal of improving security nationwide, not just in isolated hotspots.
A Partnership Built on Shared Values
According to the joint statement, both delegations leaned on the long-standing relationship between Nigeria and the United States, one rooted in pluralism, respect for the rule of law, and national sovereignty.
These shared values, they noted, remain central to how both countries approach religious freedom and internal security challenges.
U.S. Backs Nigeria’s Security Adjustments
The U.S. delegation welcomed Nigeria’s recent realignment of security resources, particularly in the North Central states, describing it as a positive step toward protecting civilians and restoring stability.
American officials praised these moves as evidence that Abuja is taking concrete action to address insecurity on the ground.
Strong Words on Rights and Accountability
Both sides reaffirmed what the statement called a “strong and unflinching commitment” to religious freedom.
They also agreed that protecting the rights to religion, expression, and peaceful assembly—consistent with Nigeria’s constitution—must go hand in hand with holding perpetrators of violence accountable.
Deepening the Fight Against Terrorism
Beyond words, the talks outlined plans to strengthen counter-terrorism cooperation.
This includes closer operational collaboration, better access to technology, stronger anti-money laundering frameworks, efforts to choke off terrorist financing, and expanded law enforcement and investigative capacity.
Recognition of Recent Progress
The U.S. side also acknowledged Nigeria’s swift steps to improve security for at-risk Christian communities and other Nigerians affected by terrorism and criminal violence.
The praise was framed as encouragement to keep momentum going rather than a signal that the work is done.
Looking Ahead to the Next Round
The meeting wrapped up with agreement on what comes next: the second session of the U.S.–Nigeria Joint Working Group will take place in the United States, on a date to be set through diplomatic channels.
For now, both governments appear keen to turn commitments into results—and to keep the conversation moving forward.
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