Foreign
By Israel Lar
In recent years, insecurity has become a pervasive issue, deeply eroding the fabric of peaceful coexistence and unity in Nigeria. What was once a growing concern has now evolved into a full-scale crisis, tearing apart the nation’s social and economic systems. At the heart of this deepening insecurity lies a tangled web of challenges, including banditry, kidnapping, herders/farmers clashes, Boko Haram insurgency, ISIS, and the militant group known as Lakurawa, among others.
As Nigeria grapples with these multiple security threats, the scale and complexity of the situation demand both domestic and international intervention. One of the most significant international collaborations to emerge in recent months is the joint effort between Nigeria and the United States. In November 2025, the Nigerian Presidency announced a major security partnership with the U.S., signaling a renewed commitment to tackling the country’s insecurity through enhanced intelligence sharing and the expedited delivery of defense equipment. This partnership aims to confront the array of threats Nigeria faces head-on, providing critical support for Nigerian security forces.
In early December 2025, National Security Adviser (NSA) Mallam Nuhu Ribadu visited Washington, D.C., to formalize this agreement and strengthen the intelligence-sharing framework. Ribadu’s trip also focused on securing U.S. commitment to fast-track the delivery of defense surveillance systems and counter-improvised explosive device (IED) technology. These technologies are critical as Nigeria battles not only insurgency but also the devastating impact of terrorist activities, particularly those perpetrated by Boko Haram and ISIS affiliates.
Nigeria faces a multifaceted security crisis. The northeast region is beset by an ongoing Islamic insurgency, while criminal gangs and armed bandits plague other parts of the country, especially in the northwest. In the central region, farmers and herders continue to clash over scarce land and resources, exacerbating tensions and violence. In the southeast, separatist movements further contribute to national instability.
On the international stage, the U.S. has expressed increasing concern over the rise of extremist groups in the Sahel region, which could destabilize the wider West African area. Nigeria is seen as a crucial counterterrorism partner for the U.S., a nation that views the African country as a strategic player in preventing the spillover of jihadist activities into North Africa and Europe. As part of this larger regional security architecture, the U.S. aims to deepen its counterterrorism partnership with Nigeria through initiatives such as the Trans-Saharan Counterterrorism Partnership (TSCTP), further embedding Nigeria in a broader, coordinated security strategy for the region.
In addition to these efforts, a recent visit by a U.S. delegation, consisting of lawmakers and diplomats, was intended to assess the state of Nigeria’s security and human rights situation. Concerns over the large-scale persecution and killings of Christians across the country have prompted the U.S. to seek a clearer understanding of the situation on the ground, especially as it pertains to government responses to these attacks. While the partnership remains focused on security cooperation, human rights issues have become an integral part of the dialogue between the two nations.
Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, in addressing the new collaboration, expressed optimism about the future of the partnership. “I’m optimistic that this engagement will deepen trust, collaboration, and shared commitment to peace and security,” Ribadu said. His statement reflects the broader sentiment within Nigeria’s leadership, which is hopeful that this alliance will bring tangible results.
The U.S. government has affirmed its readiness to strengthen security cooperation with Nigeria, with the ultimate goal of eradicating the insecurity that has plagued the nation for years. However, despite the optimism, several logistical hurdles remain. Global supply chain delays, particularly in the defense sector, as well as Nigeria’s fiscal constraints, may slow the delivery of much-needed equipment and resources. Additionally, human rights concerns continue to be a point of contention, particularly within the U.S. legislative branch. Lawmakers have emphasized the need for greater accountability from Nigerian security forces, a challenge that the Nigerian government must address if the partnership is to succeed.
It is important to note that while the U.S. is not directly fighting Nigeria’s battles, it has been engaged in security cooperation, which includes the provision of training, equipment, and intelligence sharing. The hope is that this cooperation will evolve from sporadic aid to a more institutionalized collaboration, driven by real-time intelligence sharing, targeted funding, and long-term strategic goals.
The U.S.-Nigeria counterterrorism effort represents a crucial turning point in the fight against insecurity. If trust can be maintained and operational metrics are consistently met, this partnership has the potential to reduce the frequency of attacks, improve early warning systems, and enhance Nigeria’s overall security landscape. This collaboration could go a long way toward degrading the operational capacity of militant groups and significantly curtailing the threats that have long disrupted Nigeria’s peace.
The road ahead is undoubtedly challenging, but with sustained cooperation, transparency, and commitment from both parties, there is hope that Nigeria will emerge stronger in the face of its security challenges. Ultimately, the success of this partnership will depend on Nigeria’s ability to leverage U.S. support effectively while addressing the underlying issues that continue to fuel insecurity within its borders.