US, Nigeria discuss Christians’ protection, terrorists’ prosecution
The second session of the United States-Nigeria Joint Working Group (JWG) on Nigeria’s Particular Concern Designation took place this week in Washington, D.C.
Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker hosted the meeting, which included a Nigerian delegation led by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.
According to a readout from the State Department released on Friday, discussions focused on three main issues: the protection of Christian communities in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, accountability for perpetrators of violence through enhanced judicial and security institutions, and military-to-military cooperation.
Both nations reviewed progress on the return of internally displaced persons to their ancestral homes, the prosecution of terrorism-related offenses, and measures to combat the financing of terrorism.
The talks highlighted ongoing challenges, such as civilian fatalities and a lack of transparency regarding humanitarian expenditures. The U.S. acknowledged Nigeria’s reported efforts to prosecute hundreds of terror suspects and to expand its judicial capacity, including the recruitment and training of 50,000 additional police officers.
Washington and Abuja also agreed to continue their collaboration on countering the financing of terrorism and sharing biometric information to support accountability measures. Additionally, U.S. law enforcement capacity will be enhanced through the Department’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs and the Bureau of Counterterrorism.
In a private conversation with Ribadu, Hooker reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to safeguarding Christian communities in Nigeria and strengthening joint security cooperation.
On Thursday, the Nigerian delegation visited the Pentagon, where discussions with U.S. defense officials centered on military collaboration.
The first session of the JWG was held in Abuja on January 22.
