By Ihechi Enyinnaya
In a historic step to deepen security and human rights cooperation, Lt. Gen. John Brennan today joined senior officials from the U.S. Department of War, the U.S. Department of State, and the U.S. Mission in Nigeria to launch the first-ever U.S.–Nigeria Working Group.
The initiative comes in the wake of recent U.S. military airstrikes targeting Islamic State–affiliated militants in northwest Nigeria, operations that were framed as a response to ongoing attacks on Christian communities. The strikes follow Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern under the International Religious Freedom Act, reflecting growing international attention on religious violence in the region.
Officials said the working group is “more than a meeting” — it is a formal mechanism for action, accountability, and coordination between the two nations. It is intended to support counter-terrorism efforts, protect vulnerable populations, and strengthen collaboration on security and human rights.
While the U.S. framed the recent military action as a measure to curb violence against Christians, analysts note that extremist attacks in Nigeria affect communities regardless of religion and are part of a broader security crisis involving terrorism, armed banditry, and weak governance.
The new U.S.–Nigeria Working Group is expected to provide a platform for sustained dialogue, practical cooperation, and coordinated responses to these complex security challenges, marking a significant step in U.S.–Nigeria relations.