Trump Backs Tinubu’s Anti-terrorism Efforts, Vows Stronger US-Nigeria Ties

United States President, Donald Trump, has commended President Bola Tinubu for his efforts to tackle terrorism and his resolve to address violence targeting Christian communities in Nigeria.

Trump also expressed his readiness to work with the Nigerian President to strengthen the relationship between the United States and Nigeria and make the country “stronger and more prosperous.”

The US President’s commendation was contained in a letter dated July 6, 2026, released on Wednesday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

Trump’s letter was in response to a correspondence from Tinubu, with the US President particularly praising the Nigerian leader for his approach to tackling security challenges in the country.

In the letter, Trump said he appreciated Tinubu’s leadership and commitment to addressing the problems facing Nigeria.

He specifically praised the President’s resolve to tackle violence affecting Christian communities, saying the US was prepared to support Nigeria in the fight against terrorism.

Trump said, “Thank you for your thoughtful letter. Your kind words mean a great deal to me, and I appreciate your decisive leadership on behalf of the Nigerian people.

“I applaud your resolve to tackle the issues plaguing your nation, especially the violence affecting Christian communities and it is a true honor to stand with you in the fight against terrorists and to make the Federal Republic of Nigeria stronger and more prosperous.”

Trump highlights US-Nigeria security ties

The US President said the relationship between both countries had become increasingly important amid the spread of conflicts across West Africa and other parts of the world.

According to him, Nigeria and the United States share a common goal of fighting terrorism in all its forms.

He also pointed to the 2026 Defence Cooperation Roadmap between both countries as a framework for strengthening joint efforts against terrorism and other security threats.

Trump said, “The United States-Nigeria relationship is crucial at a time where conflict has spread across West Africa and around the world.

“We both share a mutual goal of confronting terrorism in all its forms, and our historic US-Nigeria 2026 Defence Cooperation Roadmap has established a robust framework to accomplish this feat.”

US deploys Special Operations Forces

Trump further disclosed that the United States had deployed its Special Operations Forces to support and train Nigerian military personnel.

He described the US special forces as some of the most elite military units in the world, saying their role was to equip Nigerian troops with the necessary skills, tools and intelligence to protect the country.

The US President said the assistance was also aimed at improving the safety and security of Nigerians, particularly Christian communities that had come under attack.

He said, “I am proud to have deployed the United States Special Operations Forces—among the most elite military units anywhere in the world, to equip the brave men and women in the Armed Forces of Nigeria with the skills, tools and intelligence they need to protect your homeland and ensure the safety and security of citizens, particularly those of faith who have been under attack.”

Trump expressed optimism about continued cooperation with Tinubu, saying he looked forward to further discussions with the Nigerian President during his tenure.

“I look forward to our continued discussions over the course of my Presidency,” he added.