Trump Praises Tinubu for Anti-Terrorism Leadership

In a letter dated July 6, 2026, United States President Donald Trump commended Nigerian President Bola Tinubu for his decisive leadership in addressing terrorism in Nigeria. Trump expressed gratitude for Tinubu's earlier correspondence and praised his efforts to combat violence, particularly against Christian communities.

He emphasized the significance of the US-Nigeria relationship amid rising insecurity in West Africa, stating that both nations share a mutual goal of confronting terrorism. Trump noted the establishment of the US-Nigeria 2026 Defence Cooperation Roadmap, which provides a framework for collaboration.

He revealed that elite US Special Operations Forces have been deployed to train Nigerian troops, enhancing their operational capabilities. The letter also referenced a Joint Working Group formed in November 2025 to coordinate security efforts, including a successful operation on May 16 that resulted in the death of ISIS leader Abubakar Al-Minoki.

This partnership aims to strengthen Nigeria's security and protect its citizens.