U.S. President Donald Trump has praised Nigerian President Bola Tinubu for his handling of security challenges and efforts to combat violence, according to a letter released by Nigeria's presidency on Wednesday.
The letter, dated 6 July, marks a notable shift in tone from Trump's criticism of Nigeria late last year, when he accused Abuja of failing to protect Christian communities from extremist violence and threatened measures that included potential aid cuts.
In the letter, Trump commended Tinubu's leadership and his government's response to security threats.
"I appreciate your decisive leadership on behalf of the Nigerian people," Trump wrote, while also applauding efforts to address "the violence affecting Christian communities."
The U.S. president further expressed support for cooperation between the two countries in tackling terrorism and insecurity.
"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 said.
Trump's message suggests an improvement in relations between Washington and Abuja following a period of friction.
Last November, the U.S. leader publicly criticised Nigeria's handling of attacks affecting Christian communities and warned that the United States could reconsider assistance to the country.
Nigerian authorities rejected those allegations, insisting that insecurity affects citizens of all religious backgrounds and is not targeted at a particular faith.
Since then, security cooperation between the two countries appears to have deepened.
According to the Nigerian presidency, the United States and Nigeria established a joint security working group last year aimed at expanding intelligence sharing, military training and coordinated efforts against militant groups.
The release of Trump's letter also comes shortly after U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Africa Frank Garcia visited Abuja for discussions focused on strengthening bilateral security cooperation.
The developments point to closer engagement between the two governments as they work together on counterterrorism efforts and broader regional security challenges.
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