?A high-powered Nigerian delegation has arrived in Washington, D.C., to participate in the US-Nigeria Joint Working Group meeting aimed at evaluating counterterrorism efforts and charting the future course of bilateral security cooperation between both nations.

?The diplomatic engagement features key foreign policy leadership, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye.

The Nigerian delegation is led by the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, while the United States delegation is headed by Allison Hooker, Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs.

?This high-level meeting builds on momentum from the inaugural session held in Abuja in January 2026. That foundational meeting established a framework to enhance intelligence sharing, strengthen defence cooperation, and better safeguard vulnerable communities, particularly those exposed to religiously motivated violence.

?The Washington sessions focus on expanding security strategies across several critical fronts.

Key agenda items include reviewing plans for the safe return and enhanced protection of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), strengthening intelligence coordination, disrupting terror financing networks, and holding perpetrators accountable.

?Additionally, both delegations are addressing tighter border control protocols to curb the flow of illicit goods, resources, and personnel, alongside a comprehensive strategic review of the bilateral Defense Roadmap.