NATIONAL Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, on Monday held talks with a senior United States delegation led by Frank Garcia, the newly appointed US Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, in a move aimed at strengthening security collaboration between Nigeria and the United States.
News Point Nigeria reports that the meeting, held in Abuja, marked Garcia’s first official visit to Nigeria since assuming office on June 1, 2026, and formed part of a broader diplomatic mission across West Africa.
Garcia’s regional tour, which runs from July 11 to July 18, also includes visits to Côte d’Ivoire and Mali.
Following the meeting, Ribadu said the discussions centred on consolidating the long-standing partnership between Nigeria and the United States, particularly in the area of security cooperation.
According to the National Security Adviser, both countries reviewed ongoing engagements under the Nigeria-United States Joint Working Group and explored new opportunities for expanding collaboration on shared security concerns.
He noted that the talks further reinforced the commitment of both governments to sustained dialogue and closer cooperation in addressing issues of mutual interest.
“In consolidating the gains of our partnership with the United States, I received a high-level delegation led by the new Assistant Secretary for African Affairs, Frank Garcia, on his first official visit to Nigeria since assuming office,” Ribadu wrote on his X handle.
He added: “My meeting with them strengthened the strong and enduring Nigeria–US partnership and assessed progress under the Joint Working Group, restating our shared commitment to deeper dialogue, cooperation and mutual security priorities.”
Garcia brings extensive experience in national security and intelligence to his new diplomatic role.
Before joining the US State Department, he served for nearly three decades in the United States Navy and later worked as a senior adviser to the chairman of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence.
He also served as staff director for the Defence Intelligence and Overhead Architecture Subcommittee.
Garcia’s confirmation filled a critical diplomatic position that had remained vacant for more than a year, during which the affairs of the bureau were overseen by acting officials.
His visit to Nigeria underscores Washington’s continued engagement with West African countries on issues relating to security, intelligence cooperation and regional stability.