Relations between the United States and Nigeria appear to be improving after President Donald Trump praised President Bola Tinubu’s leadership in a letter that highlighted growing cooperation between both countries on security and counterterrorism.
The letter, dated July 6 and released by Nigeria’s presidency on Wednesday, marks a notable change in tone after Trump last year criticised Nigeria’s handling of violence affecting Christian communities and warned that Washington could cut aid and consider other measures against Africa’s largest economy.
In the letter, Trump commended Tinubu’s “decisive leadership on behalf of the Nigerian people” and praised his efforts to address violence affecting Christian communities.
“It is a true honor to stand with you in the fight against terrorists and to make the Federal Republic of Nigeria stronger and more prosperous,” Trump wrote.
The message comes as Washington and Abuja expand security collaboration against militant groups operating across Nigeria and the wider West African region.
