The United States has moved to calm weeks of diplomatic tension with Nigeria, shifting from harsh warnings to a more cooperative tone after fresh security consultations between both countries. The new approach emerged after a series of engagements between Nigerian officials, led by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and a visiting US congressional delegation.

According to Punch, the change in rhetoric follows concerns in Washington that its earlier threats and accusations aimed at the Nigerian government risked damaging long-standing security ties. Analysts told THISDAY that both countries appeared eager to prevent a further deterioration in relations, especially at a time when extremist violence is rising across parts of West Africa.

US Lawmakers Back “Constructive Engagement”

The clearest signal of the shift came from Riley Moore, a member of the US House of Representatives who led the American fact-finding mission to Nigeria. Moore had been among the most outspoken critics of the Tinubu administration in recent weeks. However, after concluding his visit, he described his meetings with Nigerian authorities as “productive and positive.”

Moore stated in a message posted on his X account that both sides discussed concrete measures to improve Nigeria’s security situation. He added that the urgency of US concerns, especially regarding attacks on Christian communities in the Middle Belt, was well received.

He said, “There were concrete steps and actions discussed at length that, if fully executed, will enhance security across the country, disrupt terrorist organisations in the north-east, and stop the killing of Christians, which is a specific concern for the President of the United States and myself.”

Moore also praised the Nigerian government for the rescue of 100 students abducted from Papiri Catholic School in Niger State. According to him, the operation demonstrated a more coordinated response by Nigerian security forces.

Tinubu Commends Security Agencies

President Bola Tinubu on Monday welcomed the safe return of the 100 schoolchildren and praised the security agencies for what he described as tireless work. In a statement released by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President directed security forces to intensify the search for the remaining 115 students and teachers still in captivity.

Tinubu said both the federal government and the Niger State government were working closely to ensure that every abducted student is reunited with their families. According to Channels Television, the attack occurred on November 21 during a raid on the Catholic school in Papiri.

The President said, “My instruction to our security forces is clear. Every Nigerian who has been abducted must be rescued and returned safely. We must account for all the victims. The federal government will continue to support Niger State and other states to secure our schools and protect our children.”

Security experts interviewed by Vanguard noted that Tinubu’s comments align with a new strategy that prioritises proactive intelligence gathering and closer coordination between federal and state authorities.

Growing Concern Over US Rhetoric

Diplomatic tensions escalated earlier in November when former US President Donald Trump accused the Nigerian government of failing to protect Christian communities and threatened possible military intervention. The Nigerian government rejected the allegations, insisting that violent attacks affect people of all religions and ethnicities.

On November 1, Trump announced on his social media platform that he had instructed the US Department of War to prepare for potential military action in Nigeria. He warned that the United States would halt all aid unless violence against Christians stopped. His remarks sparked strong reactions from Nigerian officials and civil society leaders.

However, following last week’s consultations, both countries now appear to be moving toward cooperation rather than confrontation. Moore noted that a joint Nigeria US task force has already been established and described it as a promising example of what he called “openness and willingness” on the part of the Nigerian government.

A Cautious but Positive Outlook

While the latest exchanges signal a calmer diplomatic climate, experts caution that significant work still lies ahead. Dr. Yusuf Danbaba, a security analyst at Kaduna State University, said the renewed engagement is a positive step but warned that Nigeria must convert promises into action on the ground.

He said, “The United States is clearly willing to support Nigeria, but what they want to see is real, measurable progress. Strengthening intelligence sharing and improving the safety of rural communities must be top priorities.”

Moore echoed that sentiment, stating that progress was being made, but Nigeria needed to maintain momentum. “There is much work still to be done,” he said. “However, things are moving in the right direction. I look forward to continued dialogue. God bless the great people of Nigeria.”