U.S. praises Nigeria’s counter-terrorism gains, reaffirms security support

Claude Tudor, commander of the U.S. Special Operations Command Africa (SOCAFRICA), has lauded the operational achievements of the Joint Task Force (North-East), Operation Hadin Kai, describing its recent successes against terrorist groups as evidence of the Nigerian Armed Forces’ resilience, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to restoring peace in the country’s troubled North-East.

Tudor made the remarks during an official visit to the headquarters of Operation Hadin Kai in Maiduguri, Borno State, where he reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to its long-standing strategic partnership with Nigeria in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism.

The visit comes amid ongoing efforts by both countries to strengthen military cooperation in response to evolving security threats across the Lake Chad Basin and the wider West African region.

Abdulsalam Abubakar, Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, briefed the visiting U.S. delegation on the current security landscape in the North-East, ongoing counter-insurgency operations, and recent battlefield successes recorded by Nigerian troops.

Abubakar highlighted the operational gains made by the Joint Task Force in degrading terrorist capabilities, securing communities, and sustaining military pressure on insurgent groups operating in the region.

He also outlined the force’s continued efforts to restore lasting peace and stability while enhancing security for residents affected by years of insurgency.

Responding, Tudor commended the troops for their dedication, discipline, and professionalism, noting that their achievements continue to contribute significantly to regional peace and security.

He acknowledged the sacrifices of Nigerian military personnel and praised Operation Hadin Kai’s sustained efforts in confronting terrorism despite the complex operational environment.

The SOCAFRICA commander reiterated the United States’ commitment to expanding defence cooperation with Nigeria through sustained collaboration, capacity building, specialised training and the exchange of operational expertise.

According to him, strengthening partnerships remains essential to effectively tackling increasingly sophisticated security challenges posed by terrorist and extremist groups across Africa.

The United States redesignated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) on October 31, 2025, under the provisions of the International Religious Freedom Act.

The designation was formally announced by Donald Trump, U.S. President, who cited concerns over alleged violations of religious freedom and reports of violence against Christians in parts of the country.

However, the federal government strongly rejected the CPC designation, describing it as a misrepresentation of the country’s security realities.

Nigerian authorities argued that the decision was based on inaccurate information, flawed data and narratives promoted by separatist and interest groups seeking to portray the country’s security challenges as religiously motivated.

The FG also reiterated its openness to international security cooperation, saying it remains committed to working with global partners to strengthen intelligence sharing, enhance military capacity, and combat terrorism, banditry, and other security threats confronting the country.

As part of its support for Nigeria’s counter-terrorism campaign, the United States deployed about 200 military personnel to the country in a non-combat role.

The troops were assigned advisory, intelligence and training responsibilities aimed at strengthening the operational capabilities of the Nigerian military in its fight against terrorist groups.

Their activities focused on intelligence sharing, technical assistance and the coordination of air and ground operations.