United States President Donald Trump has commended President Bola Tinubu for what he described as his “decisive leadership” in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism, signaling a notable improvement in relations between Washington and Abuja after months of security cooperation. The commendation was contained in an official letter dated July 6, which was released by the Nigerian Presidency on Wednesday.
In the letter, Trump praised Tinubu’s efforts to tackle insecurity, particularly attacks affecting Christian communities, and reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to supporting Nigeria’s counter-terrorism campaign.
“I appreciate your decisive leadership on behalf of the Nigerian people,” Trump wrote. “It is a true honor to stand with you in the fight against terrorists and to make the Federal Republic of Nigeria stronger and more prosperous.”
The letter also highlighted the growing security partnership between both countries. According to the Presidency, the US–Nigeria 2026 Defence Cooperation Roadmap and a joint security working group have strengthened intelligence sharing, military training and coordinated operations against terrorist groups operating in Nigeria and the wider West African region.
The commendation marks a significant shift from Trump’s position late last year, when he criticized Nigeria’s handling of attacks on Christian communities and threatened sanctions and possible military action if the situation failed to improve. Since then, both governments have deepened security cooperation, culminating in joint counter-terrorism operations, including the elimination of a senior Islamic State leader in Nigeria earlier this year.
The letter was made public shortly after the visit of US Assistant Secretary of State for Africa Frank Garcia to Abuja, where discussions focused on expanding bilateral security cooperation and addressing growing instability across West Africa. Analysts say the timing underscores the strategic importance both countries now place on their security relationship.
While the letter has been welcomed by supporters of the Tinubu administration as international recognition of Nigeria’s security efforts, critics argue that significant challenges remain, with insurgency, banditry and kidnappings continuing to affect several parts of the country. Nevertheless, the correspondence reflects warming diplomatic ties between Abuja and Washington as both governments seek closer collaboration on regional security.
