US Congress proposes security pact with Nigeria to counter terrorism and foreign influence
US Congress released recommendations for Nigeria focusing on security and economic cooperation. Key proposals include a bilateral agreement to combat terrorism, protect vulnerable communities, and counter Russian and Chinese influence in West Africa. Recommendations urge President Tinubu to strike a pact with the US Government to eliminate jihadist terror activity, protect Christian communities, deepen economic ties, and counter adversarial influence. Nigeria would commit to co-funding humanitarian support for displaced persons, strengthening early-warning systems, deploying rapid-response forces, and restoring farmlands. Counterterrorism collaboration would expand, with Nigeria divesting from Russian military hardware in favor of American systems. Sanctions against religious violence perpetrators and visa restrictions are proposed. While the report signals renewed US engagement (including Christmas Day 2025 air operations), aspects like abolishing Sharia law and decoupling from Russia/China face Nigerian resistance. Nigeria must balance leveraging US support to degrade terrorists while maintaining BRICS-aligned partnerships.