Nigeria, US launch new counter-terrorism group
U.S., Nigeria Launch Joint Working Group to Strengthen Counter-Terrorism and Civilian Protection
January 23, 2026
Senior officials from the United States, led by Lt. Gen. John Brennan, arrived in Abuja on Friday for the launch of the inaugural U.S.–Nigeria Working Group, a new bilateral initiative designed to enhance coordination, accountability, and joint action on counter-terrorism and civilian protection.
The working group establishes a formal framework for both countries to confront terrorism, improve security cooperation, and safeguard vulnerable communities, particularly in Nigeria’s northern and central regions, which have been severely affected by insurgency and communal violence.
Leading the U.S. delegation, Lt. Gen. Brennan joined senior Nigerian government officials at the launch, emphasising the importance of close collaboration, intelligence sharing, and coordinated responses to evolving security threats.
Officials said the platform will enable regular assessments of progress, improve coordination of joint operations, ensure accountability among relevant actors, and prioritise the protection of civilians in conflict-affected areas.
The launch follows renewed international attention on violence targeting Christians and other vulnerable groups in Nigeria, which has driven intensified diplomatic engagement between Abuja and Washington in recent weeks.
The United States previously designated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) under the International Religious Freedom Act, citing persistent violence and restrictions on religious freedom. That designation helped catalyse sustained dialogue and ultimately the formation of the joint working group.
The initiative builds on earlier high-level engagements in Washington, where both governments agreed to deepen security cooperation. Areas of focus include enhanced intelligence support, expedited processing of defence equipment requests, humanitarian assistance for conflict-affected communities, and technical support for early-warning and response systems.
The Federal Government has reiterated that its response to insecurity—whether involving attacks on Christians, Muslims, or other groups—is part of a broader national strategy aimed at protecting all citizens, combating terrorism, and curbing banditry.
Authorities say efforts have been intensified through the strengthening of early-warning mechanisms, the development of a national database on violent incidents, and expanded joint security operations with international partners, including the United States.