Trump Praises Tinubu’s Anti-Terror Leadership

In a letter dated July 6, 2026, released on Wednesday by the Presidency, Trump commended Tinubu's resolve to address the country's security challenges, particularly attacks on Christian communities.

United States President Donald Trump has praised President Bola Tinubu's July 6, 2026 in Nigeria's fight against terrorism, describing his efforts to confront insecurity as decisive and reaffirming Washington's commitment to deepen security cooperation with Abuja.

In a letter dated July 6, 2026, released on Wednesday by the Presidency, Trump commended Tinubu's resolve to address the country's security challenges, particularly attacks on 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 letter comes amid expanding defence cooperation between Nigeria and the United States as both countries intensify efforts to combat terrorism and violent extremism across the Lake Chad Basin and the wider West African region.

According to the Presidency, the two leaders agreed in November last year to establish a Joint Working Group, co-chaired by the National Security Advisers of both countries, to strengthen intelligence sharing, military training and coordinated counterterrorism operations.

One of the major outcomes of the partnership, the statement said, was a coordinated operation on May 16 targeting ISIS hideouts in the Lake Chad region. The operation reportedly led to the killing of the group's senior leader, Abubakar Al-Minoki, alongside several of his lieutenants.

Trump also referenced the US-Nigeria 2026 Defence Cooperation Roadmap, describing it as a key framework for confronting terrorism as security threats continue to spread across West Africa.

"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," the US president wrote.

He added that he looked forward to continued engagement with Tinubu throughout his presidency.

The latest message follows the recent visit to Abuja by US Assistant Secretary of State for Africa Frank Garcia, who held talks with senior Nigerian officials and reaffirmed Washington's commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation on security and other strategic areas.

The letter was made public by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, in a statement issued on Wednesday.