House Committee Chairman Calls for Deepened U.S. Support in Nigeria’s Fight Against Insecurity.

Nigeria’s ongoing collaboration with the United States remains pivotal in addressing the country’s security challenges, according to Hon. Babajimi Benson, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Defence. Benson emphasized that strengthened bilateral cooperation is essential for tackling insecurity and other strategic issues.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Benson made these remarks following recent meetings with senior U.S. officials in Abuja, which he attended alongside other key committee chairpersons. He noted that these engagements consistently reinforced the message that Nigeria and the United States are more effective when working together.

He recalled leading a delegation on 19 November 2025 to meet a U.S. team led by Ms. Cassandra Carraway and Mr. Mark Handloff. These discussions followed earlier consultations with U.S. military-political advisers in August 2025 and a December 2024 dialogue with members of the U.S. Congress, including Rep. John James, Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, along with other U.S. legislators and embassy officials.

Benson highlighted that each engagement reaffirmed the long-standing partnership between the two nations and their shared commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity in Nigeria. He stressed that the United States has repeatedly expressed its readiness to support Nigeria through both military and non-military initiatives.

The talks concluded with a mutual agreement on the importance of deepening trust, enhancing U.S. support for Nigeria’s counter-insurgency operations, strengthening human rights protections, and promoting legislative diplomacy. Benson underscored that Nigeria seeks a partnership that not only addresses its challenges but also reflects the resilience, creativity, and potential of its youth, as well as ongoing national reforms.

He added that condemnation or confrontation is counterproductive at this stage of Nigeria’s democratic evolution. Instead, constructive dialogue, mutual accountability, and respectful engagement remain the most effective paths toward security, stability, and prosperity, benefiting both Nigeria and the United States.