UK-Nigeria Defence Partnership Expands Security Cooperation

The Fourth United Kingdom–Nigeria Security and Defence Partnership (SDP) Dialogue was held at the Office of the National Security Adviser in Abuja on June 23 and 24, 2026. Co-chaired by Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the United Kingdom’s National Security Adviser, Jonathan Powell, the dialogue emphasized the expanding cooperation between Nigeria and the UK in addressing complex security challenges.

The discussions produced commitments in various areas including counter-terrorism, maritime security, cyber resilience, human rights, and regional stability. Both nations recognized that modern security threats require integrated responses involving military institutions, intelligence agencies, law enforcement, and civil society.

The dialogue built upon previous discussions from the third SDP Dialogue in London in July 2025 and established a framework for accountability and measurable implementation of agreed objectives. A significant outcome was the UK’s renewed long-term commitment to support Nigeria’s Armed Forces, reflecting a strategic alliance that extends beyond conventional military cooperation.