The Presidency has described US President Donald Trump’s praise for President Bola Tinubu as further evidence of progress in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and insecurity.
Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communications, Daniel Bwala, made the statement on Wednesday during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today.
Bwala was responding to a letter Trump sent to Tinubu and dated July 6, 2026. The Presidency released details of the letter on Wednesday.
In the correspondence, Trump praised Tinubu’s “decisive leadership” and his efforts to confront terrorism and insecurity, particularly violence affecting Christian communities. Trump also reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts.
Bwala: Trump’s letter confirms progress
Bwala said the US president’s commendation strengthens the administration’s position that its security efforts are producing results.
“Fact speaks for itself. That’s what it is. The letter is further proof of the progress we are making,” Bwala said.
However, he stressed that the administration would continue its security efforts regardless of external recognition.
According to him, Nigeria and the United States already maintain ongoing communication and cooperation on security matters.
He compared Trump’s message to encouragement between people in a relationship. In his view, such recognition can strengthen commitment, but it does not determine whether the relationship continues.
US-Nigeria security cooperation
Trump’s letter also highlighted the broader security relationship between Washington and Abuja.
The US president said the two countries share a common goal of confronting terrorism and pointed to the 2026 US-Nigeria Defence Cooperation Roadmap as a framework for deeper collaboration.
The Presidency also said the United States has deployed Special Operations Forces to help Nigerian security personnel improve their skills, access relevant tools and strengthen intelligence capabilities.
The development comes as Nigeria continues to battle terrorist groups and other security threats across several parts of the country.
For more details on the Presidency’s statement and the full correspondence, visit the State House, Abuja.
Key points
- Trump praised Tinubu’s leadership in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.
- The Presidency says the letter reflects progress in security efforts.
- Daniel Bwala said the recognition will not replace ongoing counter-terrorism work.
- The US and Nigeria are expanding security cooperation under a 2026 defence roadmap.
- Washington has also pledged support through training, tools and intelligence.
