United States President Donald Trump has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism, describing his approach as “decisive” while reaffirming Washington’s commitment to deepen security cooperation with Abuja.

In a letter dated July 6, 2026, and released on Wednesday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Trump praised Tinubu’s determination to confront terrorism and violent extremism, particularly attacks targeting Christian communities.

“I appreciate your decisive leadership on behalf of the Nigerian people,” Trump wrote. “I applaud your resolve to tackle the issues plaguing your nation, especially the violence affecting Christian communities. It is a true honour to stand with you in the fight against terrorists and to make the Federal Republic of Nigeria stronger and more prosperous.”

The US President described Nigeria as a strategic partner at a time when violent extremism continues to threaten stability across West Africa, saying both countries share a common resolve to confront terrorism in all its forms.

According to him, the US-Nigeria 2026 Defence Cooperation Roadmap has laid a solid foundation for expanding bilateral military and intelligence collaboration.

Trump disclosed that the United States had deployed Special Operations Forces to support the Armed Forces of Nigeria with advanced training, operational expertise and intelligence capabilities to strengthen the country’s counter-terrorism operations.

“I am proud to have deployed the United States Special Operations Forces—among the most elite military units anywhere in the world—to equip the brave men and women in the Armed Forces of Nigeria with the skills, tools and intelligence they need to protect your homeland and ensure the safety and security of citizens, particularly those of faith who have been under attack,” he stated.

He expressed confidence that both countries would continue to build on their partnership throughout his presidency.

The latest exchange underscores the growing security partnership between Abuja and Washington.

In November last year, Presidents Trump and Tinubu agreed to establish a Joint Working Group, co-chaired by the National Security Advisers of both countries, to coordinate efforts against terrorism. The framework has since facilitated enhanced intelligence sharing, specialised military training and joint operational planning.

One of the most significant outcomes of the collaboration was the coordinated operation on May 16 against ISIS hideouts in the Lake Chad Basin, during which the group’s top commander, Abubakar Al-Minoki, and several of his lieutenants were reportedly killed.

The partnership was further reinforced last week when the US Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Frank Garcia, visited Abuja for high-level talks with senior Nigerian officials.

The meetings ended with both countries pledging to broaden cooperation in security, defence and other strategic sectors.

Presidency officials view the renewed engagement as a further indication of the strengthening defence and security relationship between Nigeria and the United States amid evolving regional security challenges.