By Sunday Precious
Despite mounting political tensions over human rights claims and a controversial $9 million lobbying contract, the United States and Nigeria are moving to expand joint security operations and intelligence-sharing to combat terrorism and violent extremism.
The renewed push comes as U.S. lawmakers scrutinize a lobbying deal between the Tinubu administration and Washington-based DCI Group, facilitated by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, aimed at countering allegations of a Christian genocide in Nigeria.
Critics in Congress allege the contract is an attempt to influence U.S. policy and cover up damaging reports, including one from a bipartisan congressional delegation that urged sanctions and withholding of funds.
While the lobbying dispute plays out, operational cooperation has continued. On December 25, U.S. Africa Command, in coordination with President Bola Tinubu’s administration, conducted airstrikes in Sokoto State targeting terrorist groups. Nigerian officials say the action reflects ongoing collaboration on counterterrorism objectives.
Following days of meetings in Washington, both governments agreed to a non-binding cooperation framework and the creation of a Joint Working Group to coordinate security strategy.
The U.S. expressed readiness to enhance support in five key areas:
– Enhanced intelligence-sharing* to track and dismantle extremist networks.
– Faster approval* for Nigeria’s defence equipment requests.
– Potential release* of surplus U.S. defence hardware, subject to availability.
– Humanitarian support* for affected families and communities, especially in the Middle Belt.
– Technical assistance* to strengthen early-warning systems before threats escalate
Nigerian officials told U.S. counterparts that violent attacks affect multiple communities across religious and ethnic lines, warning that mischaracterizing the crisis as one-sided could worsen tensions. They reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving civilian protection, particularly in frontline communities.
The Tinubu administration described the engagements as a “significant step toward restoring peace across the country,” even as debates in Congress over CPC designation, Global Magnitsky sanctions, and religious freedom continue.
Both sides say the Joint Working Group will serve as the mechanism for translating diplomatic commitments into field-level coordination against insurgent and criminal groups.
