By Micah Jonah
January 23, 2026
Lieutenant General John Brennan on Thursday joined senior officials from the United States Department of War, the United States Department of State, and the US Mission in Nigeria to formally launch the first ever US Nigeria Working Group, marking a new phase of structured security cooperation between both countries.
The working group is designed as more than a routine diplomatic meeting, but as a permanent mechanism for action, accountability and coordination, following Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern under the International Religious Freedom Act.
Officials described the initiative as a practical platform to drive measurable outcomes in counter terrorism operations, protection of vulnerable communities, improved inter agency collaboration between Abuja and Washington.
The launch signals renewed commitment by both governments to address insecurity, violent extremism and human rights concerns through continuous engagement rather than isolated policy statements.
Observers say the working group could strengthen intelligence sharing, capacity building and targeted support for affected regions, while also ensuring sustained diplomatic oversight of agreed security objectives.
The engagement is widely viewed as a significant step towards deepening strategic ties between Nigeria and the United States at a time of growing security challenges across West Africa.
