US President Donald Trump has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his decisive leadership in tackling insecurity in Nigeria. In a letter dated July 6, 2026, President Trump said it is an honour to stand with Nigeria in the fight against terrorists, especially violence affecting Christian communities.

The US President noted that the US-Nigeria relationship has flourished recently, with both countries working closely on security. He referenced the Joint Working Group set up in November last year, co-headed by the National Security Advisers of both nations, to coordinate training, intelligence sharing and joint operations against terrorist groups.

A major outcome of the collaboration was the May 16 coordinated attack on ISIS hideouts in the Lake Chad area. The operation led to the killing of the group’s top leader, Abubakar Al-Minoki, and many of his lieutenants. President Trump said the US has also deployed Special Operations Forces to equip Nigerian troops with skills, tools and intelligence to protect citizens.

President Trump highlighted the US-Nigeria 2026 Defence Cooperation Roadmap as the framework guiding the partnership. Last week, US Assistant Secretary of State for Africa, Frank Garcia, was in Abuja for talks with senior government officials and pledged to further strengthen cooperation in security and other areas.

In his letter, President Trump said the US-Nigeria relationship is crucial at a time of conflict in West Africa and around the world, and expressed hope for continued discussions during his presidency. The State House said the commendation reflects growing international support for President Tinubu’s efforts to make Nigeria safer and more prosperous.