United States President Donald Trump has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as “decisive leadership” in tackling terrorism and improving security in Nigeria, signalling a marked improvement in relations between Washington and Abuja after months of diplomatic tension.
The commendation was contained in a letter dated 6 July 2026 but made public by the Nigerian Presidency on 23 July, coinciding with a visit to Abuja by US Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Frank Garcia. The timing underscored renewed cooperation between both countries on regional security and counter-terrorism.
In the letter, Trump praised Tinubu’s efforts to combat violence affecting Christian communities and acknowledged the Nigerian government’s wider campaign against terrorist organisations operating across the country.
“I appreciate your decisive leadership on behalf of the Nigerian people,” Trump wrote, adding that it was “a true honour to stand with you in the fight against terrorists and to make the Federal Republic of Nigeria stronger and more prosperous.”
The message represents a significant shift in tone from late 2025, when Trump publicly criticised Nigeria over attacks on Christian communities and warned that the United States could consider sanctions or other measures if stronger action was not taken. At the time, the Nigerian government rejected claims that insecurity was driven solely by religious persecution, insisting that terrorism and banditry affected both Christians and Muslims alike.
Relations between the two countries have since improved through closer military and intelligence cooperation. A Joint US–Nigeria Security Working Group has expanded intelligence sharing, operational planning and training aimed at weakening extremist groups operating in Nigeria and across the Lake Chad Basin.
One of the most notable outcomes of that partnership came in May, when Nigerian and US forces jointly carried out an operation that killed ISIS deputy leader Abu-Bilal al-Minuki in Borno State. Both governments described the mission as a major breakthrough in the fight against terrorism in West Africa and a demonstration of growing defence cooperation.
The Presidency said Trump’s latest message reflects international recognition of Nigeria’s renewed security efforts under Tinubu’s administration. Officials also described the letter as evidence that bilateral cooperation between Abuja and Washington is producing tangible results in intelligence sharing, military coordination and regional stability.
Analysts say the renewed diplomatic warmth could strengthen collaboration in areas beyond security, including trade, investment and regional development. Nigeria remains one of Washington’s most important strategic partners in Africa, particularly in efforts to counter extremist violence and promote economic growth.
While security challenges remain in parts of northern Nigeria, Trump’s latest remarks are expected to reinforce the growing partnership between the two governments and encourage further cooperation against terrorism.
The development also marks a notable turnaround in US-Nigeria relations, illustrating how joint security operations and sustained diplomatic engagement have helped rebuild confidence between the two countries.