Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Sola Enikanolaiye, has described the letter from U.S. President Donald Trump to President Bola Tinubu as clear international recognition of Nigeria’s progress in combating terrorism and insurgency.
Speaking on a live broadcast on National Television in Abuja on Wednesday, Enikanolaiye said the letter affirms the efforts of the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies.
“This is not just a letter of commendation. It is a commitment to stand with Nigeria,” he said “It means our men and women in uniform will have access to more skills, tools, and intelligence to protect our homeland and secure citizens, especially communities that have come under attack.”
The Minister noted recent gains, including the prosecution and conviction of terrorists and bandits, the neutralisation of several others, and the disruption of criminal communication networks. He cited the recent rescue of children in Oyo State as an example of improved operational results.
According to him, the progress reflects stronger Nigeria-U.S. collaboration in intelligence sharing, training, capacity building, and equipment supply, as well as the political will demonstrated by President Tinubu.
“President Trump is simply acknowledging this progress and encouraging us to do more,” Enikanolaiye added.
On areas of future cooperation, he said Nigeria is seeking deeper partnership in intelligence, modern technology, equipment and platforms, capacity building, and training.
He referenced the existing Joint Working Group on Nigeria as a Country of Concern, chaired by the National Security Adviser, as the framework for this engagement.
“We are in a new era of partnership — one that addresses the essential security concerns of Nigerians,” he stated.
The Minister further explained that the letter also acknowledges President Tinubu’s earlier correspondence to President Trump, following consultations between both leaders over the past two years.
Looking ahead, Enikanolaiye said Nigerians should expect more arrests, prosecutions, and decisive operations against terrorists and bandits, as well as efforts to boost public confidence in national security.
He linked the development to the Tinubu administration’s 4D Foreign Policy doctrine — Demography, Democracy, Development, and Diaspora – noting that the priority on Demography places the security and welfare of Nigerians at the center of foreign policy.
The Ministry described the letter as a major diplomatic win that strengthens defence cooperation with the United States, enhances intelligence and training support, and reinforces Nigeria’s role as a key security partner in West Africa.
For the Tinubu administration, it provides external validation of the Renewed Hope Agenda and the 4D doctrine, with potential benefits including safer communities, increased investor confidence, and room for economic growth.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting all citizens, regardless of faith or region, and to building a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.
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(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
