Nigeria Urges Increased US Support in Counterterrorism Efforts

• Nigeria calls for stronger ties with the United States to combat terrorism and address security challenges during an official visit
• Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, emphasizes collaborative efforts with the US to enhance Nigeria’s security capabilities

During an official visit to the United States, Nigeria has called for a bolstering of bilateral ties with the United States to combat terrorism and address other pressing security challenges.

Dr. Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, emphasized the need for stronger collaboration during discussions with Congresswoman Betty McCollum and several members of the US Congress at the United States Capitol.

In a statement from the defense ministry, Matawalle expressed Nigeria’s eagerness to receive more support from the US in degrading terrorists operating within the country. He underscored the enduring friendship between the two nations and President Bola Tinubu’s determination to work with friendly nations to enhance Nigeria’s overall security.

Matawalle asserted that collaborative efforts between Nigeria and the US would significantly enhance the country’s capabilities in tackling security challenges, particularly terrorism.

In response, Congresswoman McCollum, the leader of the US House Committee on Appropriation for Defence, conveyed the unwavering commitment of the US to support Nigeria in combating terrorism and other security threats. This support would encompass intelligence and information sharing, training initiatives, and the production of military hardware.

McCollum emphasized that the discussions underscored the shared commitment of both nations to foster regional and global security. She described the meeting as pivotal, reinforcing diplomatic ties and collaborative efforts between Nigeria and the US.

According to McCollum, the strengthened partnership between the two countries would significantly contribute to Nigeria’s stability, addressing the shared challenges in the interest of regional and global security.