By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola
The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare, has said Nigeria needs deeper collaboration with global partners, particularly the United Kingdom and the United States, to strengthen efforts to combat terrorism.
Dare stated this during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s two-day state visit to the United Kingdom, explaining that the growing and transnational nature of modern security threats makes it impossible for Nigeria to confront terrorism in isolation, hence the need for stronger international alliances.
Speaking in an interview with Yalda Hakim of Sky News, Dare stressed that terrorism has become a cross-border challenge requiring coordinated global action.
“In fighting terrorism, which is transnational, Nigeria needs strong allies like the UK and the US,” he said.
He noted that Nigeria had recently strengthened security cooperation with the United States, which led to the deployment of US troops to the country to train Nigerian personnel on the use of military hardware.
The deployment, he explained, followed collaboration between the Federal Government and the US government aimed at improving the fight against fighters of the Islamic State of West African Province operating in the North-East and North-West regions of the country.
Dare further stated that modern security threats increasingly cut across national borders, making intelligence sharing, joint military operations and coordinated strategic planning essential in tackling insurgency and extremism.
According to him, Nigeria continues to face persistent attacks from insurgent and extremist groups whose activities extend beyond its borders into neighbouring countries, describing the situation as part of a wider global security challenge rather than a purely domestic issue.
He added that the Tinubu administration is prioritising stronger bilateral relationships with key global powers as part of a broader strategy to enhance national security.
Dare said the President’s visit to the United Kingdom provided an opportunity to deepen cooperation in defence, intelligence gathering and capacity building for Nigeria’s armed forces.
He also highlighted the importance of collaboration with the United States, noting that such partnerships provide access to technical expertise, advanced training and counter-terrorism support needed to improve response capability.
According to him, improved cooperation with international allies will enable Nigeria to respond more effectively to emerging threats while strengthening the country’s overall security framework.
He explained that President Tinubu’s visit also focused on strengthening diplomatic ties, expanding trade and investment opportunities, and addressing shared security concerns with global partners.
Observers, he noted, believe the renewed push for alliances reflects Nigeria’s recognition of the changing nature of terrorism and the need for coordinated global action.
Dare emphasised that the Federal Government remains committed to protecting lives and property, adding that while investments in local security structures are ongoing, sustained international support is vital for long-term success.
“The visit signals a strategic effort by Nigeria to deepen global engagement and leverage partnerships in confronting one of its most pressing security challenges,” he said.
