The United States and Nigeria have launched their first-ever U.S.–Nigeria Working Group, marking a new phase of cooperation on security, accountability, and the protection of vulnerable communities.

The working group was inaugurated on Thursday with the participation of Lt. Gen. John Brennan, alongside senior officials from the U.S. Department of Defense, the U.S. Department of State, and the U.S. Mission in Nigeria.

According to officials, the initiative goes beyond a routine diplomatic meeting, establishing a structured mechanism for sustained action, coordination, and oversight following Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern under the U.S. International Religious Freedom Act.

The engagement focused on strengthening bilateral efforts to counter terrorism, promote stability, and protect disadvantaged and at-risk groups across Nigeria.

Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, attended the meeting, alongside the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, and other senior military and government officials.

Participants described the launch of the working group as a significant step toward deepening U.S.–Nigeria relations and translating commitments into measurable outcomes in security cooperation and human rights protection.