ABUJA: (Tassawar News) In a significant official statement released from the presidential office in Abuja, Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expressed profound appreciation for the United States’ unwavering support in Nigeria’s strenuous and protracted campaign against terrorism and violent extremism. While acknowledging the crucial nature of this strategic alliance, the President concurrently emphasized the paramount importance of mutual respect and sovereign equality as indispensable foundations for cooperation between the two nations in addressing complex global security threats. President Tinubu’s remarks carefully balanced the appreciation for international partnership with a firm assertion of Nigeria’s national autonomy and commitment to its constitutional values.
The Strategic Imperative of Mutual Respect
President Tinubu clearly articulated that while Nigeria highly values its strategic security partnership with the United States, it is of equally vital importance that Washington demonstrates due respect for Nigeria’s inherent sovereignty and domestic policy choices. He reiterated the core principle that Nigeria remains a fully sovereign nation, firmly dedicated to the constitutional mandates of preserving peace, unity, and religious freedom within its defined borders. This assertion underscores a maturity in diplomatic relations, insisting that cooperation must proceed from a position of equality, not subservience.
“While Nigeria values the strategic partnership with the United States, it is equally vital that Washington respects Nigeria’s sovereignty and domestic policies. Nigeria remains a sovereign nation committed to preserving peace, unity, and religious freedom within its borders.”
The President specifically addressed and firmly rejected allegations of widespread religious intolerance within Nigeria, comments that had been reportedly made by President Donald Trump. Tinubu countered these claims by affirming that Nigeria is not defined by religious discrimination but rather stands as a nation that proactively celebrates and thrives on its profound diversity and religious pluralism.
“Our constitution guarantees every citizen the freedom to live and worship without fear or restriction. No form of violence based on religion will ever be tolerated in Nigeria. Our faith-based diversity is a source of national strength, not a weakness.”
He powerfully reaffirmed his administration’s absolute determination to protect the religious rights of all citizens, describing Nigeria’s deep faith-based diversity not as a point of contention, but emphatically as a “source of national strength.”
Commitment to Counter-Extremism and International Collaboration
In a related and reinforcing statement, Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs underscored the government’s steadfast resolve to continue its war against terrorism and extremism. The Ministry confirmed that this critical campaign will be executed through close collaboration with international partners, particularly highlighting the essential nature of the relationship with the United States.
The Ministry expressed a strong hope that the United States would not only maintain but actively strengthen bilateral relations through focused initiatives, including:
- Intelligence Sharing: Facilitating the timely exchange of critical information to pre-empt attacks.
- Capacity Building: Investing in the training and equipping of Nigerian security forces.
- Defense Cooperation: Providing necessary military hardware and logistical support for counter-insurgency operations.
For over two decades, Nigeria has grappled with significant internal security challenges, most notably the destructive insurgencies spearheaded by Boko Haram and ISWAP (Islamic State West Africa Province) militants. The Nigerian military, augmented by international assistance, continues to wage large-scale, complex counter-insurgency operations across the country’s vast northern regions to restore peace and uthority.
Shifting Geopolitical Dynamics in West Africa
International observers note the historical significance of the U.S. role, which has been crucial in supporting African nations through comprehensive intelligence and training initiatives. However, they also point to a declining U.S. military presence across West Africa in recent years, a shifting geopolitical dynamic. Last year, for instance, Washington executed the withdrawal of approximately 1,000 troops from Niger, effectively leaving Djibouti as the primary U.S. military hub on the continent, which currently stations over 5,000 personnel.
Diplomatic and security experts maintain that continued, robust collaboration between Nigeria and the United States remains absolutely essential for ensuring the long-term stability across the wider West African region. This area is increasingly characterized by escalating political unrest, coups, and the persistent threat of extremist violence, making coordinated counter-terrorism efforts more vital than ever before.
“Diplomatic experts believe that continued collaboration between Nigeria and the United States will be essential for maintaining stability across West Africa, a region increasingly affected by political unrest and extremist violence. This strategic partnership acts as a crucial anchor in a volatile geopolitical landscape.”
Conclusion: Dialogue and Shared Goals
President Tinubu concluded his address by succinctly summarizing the foundation upon which the future of Nigeria-U.S. relations must be built: mutual respect, open dialogue, and a shared commitment to common goals. He strongly urged both nations to place a renewed focus on building genuine trust and promoting sustainable peace, not only across the African continent but across the global stage. This emphasis on a relationship of equals is the key to maximizing the effectiveness of their joint security and development objectives.
President Tinubu’s comprehensive statement successfully reaffirms Nigeria’s commitment to its democratic values and its indispensable role as a sovereign partner in the global fight against extremism, ensuring that the necessary strategic alliance with the United States is maintained on terms of dignity, respect, and mutual benefit.
