Tinubu Appoints Nuhu Ribadu to Lead Nigeria’s Delegation in US–Nigeria Security Working Group
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the constitution of Nigeria’s delegation to the US–Nigeria Joint Working Group, appointing National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu to lead the Nigerian team. The working group is intended to deepen collaboration between Nigeria and the United States on security issues, particularly in combating terrorism, insurgency, banditry, and other cross-border threats that continue to challenge national stability.
The delegation comprises senior officials from across Nigeria’s security, defense, foreign affairs, and humanitarian sectors, including the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Defense, Interior, and Humanitarian Affairs; the Chief of Defence Staff; the Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency; and the Inspector-General of Police. Two secretariat members were also appointed: Ms. Idayat Hassan from the Office of the National Security Adviser and Mr. Paul Alabi of the Nigerian Embassy in the United States.
The decision follows a high-level visit to Washington, D.C., by Nigerian officials, during which preliminary agreements were reached to strengthen bilateral cooperation on security matters. President Tinubu has urged the delegation to work closely with their American counterparts to ensure the smooth implementation of agreed initiatives, emphasizing that the partnership is crucial to tackling persistent security challenges in Nigeria.
Security analysts note that the formation of the working group reflects the Tinubu administration’s renewed commitment to international collaboration and strategic engagement with the United States, aiming to leverage intelligence sharing, training, and coordinated operations to enhance Nigeria’s internal security capabilities.
The appointment of Ribadu, a former anti-corruption chief with extensive experience in security and intelligence, underscores the government’s determination to lead an effective, high-profile delegation capable of addressing Nigeria’s complex security landscape. The initiative is expected to provide a platform for sustained dialogue and operational cooperation, enhancing both countries’ capacity to respond to evolving threats and strengthen regional stability.
