By Harriet Tornguvan -Abuja
Nigeria and the United States have strengthened their long-standing security partnership following a two-day visit to Abuja by the Commander of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), General Dagvin Anderson.
During the visit, General Anderson was received by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and held high-level engagements with key Nigerian security and defence officials, including the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu and other senior officials.
The discussions was focused on shared security interests and sustained cooperation between both countries in countering terrorist organisations that pose threats to Nigeria, the United States, the wider region and global security.
According to a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, both sides also explored opportunities for enhanced military training, future force development, joint exercises and real world operational training, as well as specialised capabilities the United States can offer to support Nigeria’s defence architecture.
As part of the visit, General Anderson toured the joint United States–Nigeria intelligence fusion cell, a critical platform that strengthens Nigeria’s intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. The facility plays a key role in building enduring capacity for real-time operational outcomes.
General Anderson also interacted with senior Nigerian security officials, reaffirming the United States’ commitment to supporting Nigerian-led security solutions through intelligence sharing and technical advisory support aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s independent operational effectiveness.
The visit underscores the commitment of both nations to deepen strategic cooperation in addressing evolving security challenges across Nigeria and the African continent.
