politics
Nigeria and U.S. Officials Meet in Abuja on Security, Trade, and Bilateral Ties
Nigeria's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs met the U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs in Abuja on 13 July 2026. The sides discussed trade, security cooperation and upcoming talks in Washington.
Jul 13, 3:06 PM·1m read1 source
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Nigeria's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, received U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Frank Garcia at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja on 13 July 2026. AllAfrica reported that both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the long-standing strategic partnership between the two countries.
Ambassador Enikanolaiye stated that Nigeria attaches importance to its bilateral relations with the United States. He expressed confidence that the visit would deepen cooperation across key sectors and provide further impetus to the growing partnership.
The minister reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to strengthening collaboration in trade and investment, maritime security, counter-terrorism, intelligence sharing, and regional peace and security.
He highlighted significant progress recorded through the Nigeria–United States Joint Working Group. Preparations are ongoing for the next bilateral engagement scheduled for Washington DC in August 2026. Ambassador Enikanolaiye reiterated Nigeria's commitment to addressing security challenges through enhanced law enforcement, prosecution of terrorism-related offences, improved protection of vulnerable communities, and sustained efforts to secure the Gulf of Guinea and the Lake Chad Basin.
He emphasized that Nigeria remains committed to constructive dialogue on migration and consular issues. Ambassador Enikanolaiye stated that security challenges should not be misconstrued as a policy of religious persecution or genocide, adding that the government remains committed to protecting all citizens irrespective of religion or ethnicity and to strengthening the rule of law.
