Nigeria and the United Kingdom have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation in security and defence, pledging stronger collaboration in counter-terrorism, cybersecurity, maritime safety, intelligence sharing, and the fight against fraud and illicit finance.
The agreement was formalised in a communiqué issued after the Fourth UK–Nigeria Security and Defence Partnership Dialogue, held in Abuja on June 23–24, 2026.
The dialogue was co-chaired by Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and his UK counterpart, Jonathan Powell, alongside senior officials from both governments.
According to the communiqué, both nations will pursue cooperation “based on mutual accountability and delivery of commitments while working in a spirit of partnership.'
The UK renewed its long-term support for Nigeria’s Armed Forces, offering joint doctrine, training, technical advice, and expertise to counter threats from uncrewed air systems and improvised explosive devices.
Both sides also pledged to enhance Nigeria’s Joint Doctrine and Warfare Centre, strengthen maritime domain awareness, and expand defence trade relations.
Highlighting the Gulf of Guinea’s importance, the communiqué underscored joint efforts to combat illicit maritime activities and transnational threats, recognising the need for secure trade routes and regional stability.
Nigeria and the UK agreed to establish a structured framework for cooperation on cyber resilience, intelligence sharing, and strategies to counter misinformation, cyber-attacks, and organised crime.
Counter-Terrorism and Non-Kinetic ApproachesBoth governments committed to intensifying efforts against terrorism and violent extremism through intelligence exchange, multi-agency coordination, forensic capabilities, and aviation security support at Lagos and Abuja airports.
They also reaffirmed non-kinetic strategies, including disarmament, demobilisation, reintegration programmes, and peacebuilding initiatives.
The UK welcomed Nigeria’s use of remote court proceedings to expedite terrorism trials.
The communiqué stressed civilian protection, accountability, and transparent investigations into violations by both state and non-state actors.
Ahead of Nigeria’s upcoming elections, both governments emphasised effective election security to safeguard voters, institutions, and public order.
Regional and Financial SecurityNigeria and the UK pledged expanded cooperation against fraud and illicit finance, including asset recovery, cryptocurrency oversight, and joint enforcement.
They also expressed concern over instability in the Sahel, reaffirming Nigeria’s leadership role in West Africa and supporting its transformation of the National Counter Terrorism Centre into a Regional Centre of Excellence.
The next UK–Nigeria Security and Defence Partnership Dialogue will be hosted in London in 2027.
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