The Northern Nigeria Christian Youth Association has said the recent security commendation by United States President Donald Trump validates the efforts of President Bola Tinubu’s administration in tackling terrorism and protecting vulnerable communities across the country.
The association also commended the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), for what it described as their strategic leadership in strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture.
In a statement issued by its National Secretary, Bason Sunday, on Thursday, the group said Trump’s recognition was an indication that Nigeria’s renewed counter-terrorism efforts were receiving global attention.
According to the association, the commendation reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to restoring peace, particularly in Northern Nigeria, where communities have borne the brunt of insurgency and other violent attacks.
“The NNCYA warmly welcomes President Trump’s acknowledgement of the U.S.-Nigeria 2026 Defence Cooperation Roadmap, the deployment of U.S. Special Operations Forces to equip our military, and the successful joint counter-terrorism operations, including the recent neutralisation of top ISIS leadership in the Lake Chad region,” Sunday said.
The group praised Ribadu for providing strategic intelligence leadership and coordinating security operations aimed at dismantling terrorist networks.
“Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, National Security Adviser, we salute the NSA for his strategic intelligence direction, proactive conflict resolution, and masterminding the robust U.S.-Nigeria Joint Working Group. His efforts have revitalised the national security architecture, disrupted terror networks, and restored confidence in state security institutions,” he stated.
The association also lauded Musa for what it described as courageous and result-oriented leadership of the armed forces.
“We passionately commend the Minister of Defence for his courageous, inclusive and results-driven leadership of our armed forces. As a dedicated leader who understands the unique security terrain of Northern Nigeria, Gen. Musa’s steadfast commitment to defending all communities and restoring peace to affected areas remains commendable,” the statement added.
The NNCYA urged Nigerians to remain united and support ongoing efforts to address insecurity, irrespective of ethnic or religious differences.
It maintained that Trump’s commendation vindicates the Tinubu administration’s security strategy and demonstrates that the government’s measures to protect citizens, particularly Christian communities in Northern Nigeria, are yielding positive results.
“President Trump’s commendation proves that President Tinubu’s administration is taking the right, decisive steps to safeguard all Nigerians, particularly Christian communities in the North that have endured heavy burdens. Security is a shared responsibility, and we stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our security leadership,” Sunday said.
The association also called on the international community to deepen cooperation with Nigeria in defence, intelligence sharing and socio-economic development to strengthen the fight against terrorism and other transnational crimes across West Africa.
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