The United States has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Nigerian government, under President Bola Tinubu, in the ongoing fight against terrorist groups Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). This assurance was given by U.S. Marine Corps General Michael Langley, Commander of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), during a digital press briefing at the African Chiefs of Defense Conference 2025.
General Langley emphasized that the U.S. respects the sovereignty of African nations and only provides direct assistance when requested and when it aligns with U.S. national security interests. He noted that the U.S. has a longstanding strategic partnership with Nigeria, offering critical material, training, intelligence sharing, and military sales to bolster Nigeria’s defense capabilities.
Langley highlighted his recent visit to Nigeria, where he discussed with Nigerian defense officials how the U.S. can further assist in combating Boko Haram and ISWAP. He stressed that the U.S. approach focuses not only on military aid but also on addressing the root causes of terrorism through intelligence sharing, capacity building, and institutional strengthening.
He praised African militaries for taking greater responsibility for their own security and working towards regional stability and prosperity. The U.S., he said, remains committed to helping African partners address instability at the local level and supports their efforts to achieve long-term peace.
