Tinubu Holds Strategic Security Talks with U.S. Military Delegation in Abuja

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu met with a high-level United States military delegation at the Presidential Villa on Sunday, reinforcing ongoing security collaboration between Nigeria and the U.S.

The visiting team was led by General Dagvin R. Anderson, Commander of the United States Africa Command (USAFRICOM), and included Mr. Keith Heffern, the Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria. President Tinubu received them alongside National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu and the nation’s service chiefs.

While the discussions were held behind closed doors, officials noted that the engagement underscores the deepening security ties between the two countries. The meeting follows the recent arrival of a U.S. military contingent in Nigeria, marking the first formal U.S. troop deployment since airstrikes targeted terrorist positions last December.

A statement from the President’s office highlighted the delegation’s visit as part of broader efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation on defense and counterterrorism initiatives.

No immediate details were released on specific agreements or outcomes from the meeting. Analysts, however, suggest the talks may focus on joint intelligence sharing, training programs, and coordinated operations against regional threats.

The U.S. has maintained a strategic interest in supporting Nigeria’s security infrastructure, particularly in combating terrorism in the northeast and curbing transnational criminal networks.

President Tinubu’s engagement with General Anderson signals continued dialogue aimed at aligning Nigerian defense priorities with international security partners, emphasizing collaboration without compromising national sovereignty.

The visit is seen as a reaffirmation of the United States’ commitment to supporting Nigeria’s security framework while promoting stability across West Africa.