US To Provide Intelligence Support, Defence Equipment To Nigeria — Presidency

Special Report: US to Provide Intelligence Support and Defence Equipment to Nigeria - Presidency

The Presidency of Nigeria has confirmed that the United States Government will provide enhanced intelligence support and defence equipment to strengthen Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and violent extremism. This marks a renewed phase of bilateral security cooperation between both nations.

The announcement was made on November 24, 2025, following a series of high-level engagements between Nigerian officials and their US counterparts.

The Nigerian delegation, led by National Security Adviser Malam Nuhu Ribadu, held strategic meetings with senior officials across the US Congress, the State Department, the National Security Council, the White House Faith Office, and the Department of Defense. These discussions were aimed at deepening collaboration and exploring new avenues for joint security operations.

According to Presidential Spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, the United States reaffirmed its commitment to Nigeria by pledging enhanced intelligence-sharing mechanisms and expedited delivery of defence equipment. This support is expected to bolster Nigeria’s ongoing military campaigns against insurgent groups, kidnappers, and violent extremists who have destabilized parts of the country.

The Presidency emphasized that the partnership is not only about equipment but also about building stronger institutional ties to ensure long-term stability.

The timing of this renewed cooperation is significant. Nigeria has faced escalating insecurity, with rising incidents of abductions and violence across several regions. The US pledge comes as a reassurance of international solidarity, particularly in combating terrorism and organized crime.

Analysts note that this move signals a thaw in relations between Washington and Abuja, especially after recent tensions over human rights concerns and allegations of religious persecution.

The US Government’s decision to provide material and intelligence support underscores the strategic importance of Nigeria in regional stability and global counterterrorism efforts.

The Presidency highlighted that the collaboration will include technical assistance, intelligence coordination, and defence hardware supplies. While specific details of the equipment were not disclosed, the emphasis was placed on strengthening Nigeria’s operational capacity to respond swiftly to threats. The Nigerian Government views this as a critical step in modernizing its defence infrastructure and improving its ability to safeguard citizens.

In addition to military cooperation, the engagements also touched on broader diplomatic relations, including governance, faith-based initiatives, and socio-economic development. The inclusion of the White House Faith Office in the discussions suggests that the partnership may extend beyond security into areas of humanitarian support and community resilience.

This development has been widely welcomed by Nigerian officials, who see it as a validation of the country’s efforts to secure international backing in its fight against insecurity. It also reflects the US Government’s recognition of Nigeria as a key ally in West Africa, where instability could have far-reaching consequences for regional and global security.

The announcement represents a pivotal moment in US-Nigeria relations. By committing to provide intelligence support and defence equipment, the United States is reinforcing Nigeria’s capacity to confront its most pressing security challenges.

The Presidency has assured Nigerians that this partnership will translate into tangible improvements in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, and violent crime, thereby contributing to peace and stability across the nation.