By Ikechukwu Samuel
United States President Donald Trump has praised President Bola Tinubu for his leadership in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and insecurity, particularly attacks targeting Christian communities.
Trump conveyed the commendation in a letter dated July 6, 2026, addressed to Tinubu.
Details of the letter were made public on Wednesday through a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
The letter was titled “President Trump Lauds President Tinubu’s Decisive Leadership Against Terrorists.”
In the correspondence, Trump commended Tinubu’s commitment to addressing Nigeria’s security challenges and reaffirmed the United States’ support for the country’s counter-terrorism efforts.
Trump thanked Tinubu for his earlier letter, saying he appreciated the Nigerian President’s commitment to leading the country through difficult security challenges.
He stated that Tinubu had shown determination in confronting violence affecting Christian communities and strengthening national security.
Trump added that it was an honour for the United States to stand with Nigeria in the fight against terrorism while supporting efforts to build a stronger and more prosperous nation.
According to the statement, Trump described the United States-Nigeria relationship as increasingly important as security threats continue to spread across West Africa.
He said both countries share the common objective of confronting terrorism in all its forms through stronger bilateral cooperation.
Trump also referred to the US-Nigeria 2026 Defence Cooperation Roadmap, describing it as a solid framework for strengthening security collaboration between the two nations.
He disclosed that the United States has deployed Special Operations Forces to support Nigeria’s Armed Forces through specialised military training, intelligence and operational support.
According to Trump, the deployment is intended to provide Nigerian security personnel with the skills, equipment and intelligence required to defend the country.
He noted that the assistance is also aimed at improving the protection of citizens, especially communities affected by terrorist attacks.
Trump expressed optimism about continuing discussions with President Tinubu throughout his administration.
The Presidency stated that Nigeria and the United States have significantly expanded their security cooperation in recent months.
According to the statement, both countries established a Joint Working Group jointly chaired by their National Security Advisers.
The partnership has focused on military training, intelligence sharing and coordinated operations against terrorist organisations.
The Presidency further disclosed that one outcome of the collaboration was the May 16 operation against ISIS hideouts in the Lake Chad region.
The operation reportedly led to the killing of ISIS leader Abubakar Al-Minoki and several of his lieutenants, according to the statement.
The Presidency also said US Assistant Secretary of State for Africa, Frank Garcia, recently visited Abuja and pledged deeper cooperation with Nigeria on security and other areas of mutual interest.
