NSA Ribadu Hosts U.S. Congressional Delegation in Abuja, Strengthens Bilateral Security Cooperation

Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, on Sunday met with a delegation from the United States Congress in Abuja, marking another step in the ongoing security consultations between both countries.

The high-level meeting, held at the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), follows earlier engagements in Washington, D.C., where Nigerian and U.S. officials discussed shared security priorities.

Ribadu, in a statement posted on his X handle, said the visit by the lawmakers was part of a fact-finding mission aimed at deepening understanding of Nigeria’s evolving security landscape.

“This morning, I received a U.S. Congressional delegation on a fact-finding mission to Nigeria, following our earlier engagements in Washington, D.C., on shared security priorities,” Ribadu wrote.

He added that the U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, joined the meeting, a presence he said underscored the seriousness both governments attach to security cooperation.

According to Ribadu, discussions focused on enhancing counter-terrorism operations, improving regional stability across West Africa, and strengthening the strategic partnership between Abuja and Washington.

He expressed optimism that the engagement would lead to expanded collaboration in intelligence sharing, capacity building, and joint efforts to combat violent extremism and transnational threats.

“I’m optimistic this engagement will deepen trust, collaboration, and shared commitment to peace and security,” the NSA said.

The visit by the U.S. Congressional team comes amid renewed international interest in addressing security challenges in the Sahel and Gulf of Guinea regions, as well as supporting Nigeria’s efforts to tackle insurgency, banditry, and organised crime.

The delegation is expected to continue meetings with other Nigerian security institutions before concluding its visit.