President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria and French President Emmanuel Macron engaged in discussions regarding the ongoing security crisis in Nigeria, focusing on potential areas of collaboration. The conversation took place as a U.S. delegation, including the U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, met with National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu in Abuja to address allegations of Christian persecution and violence in the country.

In a message posted on X, Macron expressed France’s commitment to enhancing its partnership with Nigerian authorities. He affirmed solidarity with Nigeria amid escalating security challenges, particularly in the northern regions. “At his (Tinubu’s) request, we will strengthen our partnership and support for the affected populations,” Macron stated.

This dialogue comes in the wake of a surge in violence, including gun attacks and kidnappings targeting schools and communities in northern Nigeria, which have drawn international condemnation. On November 26, Tinubu declared a nationwide security emergency, directing security forces to bolster recruitment and prioritize the protection of schools, farms, and places of worship.

The talks with Macron follow heightened scrutiny from the international community, including U.S. President Donald Trump, who recently re-designated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” for religious freedom violations, threatening military intervention.

The Nigerian government has consistently rejected claims of religious persecution, asserting that the insecurity in Nigeria affects all religious groups. This backdrop prompted Ribadu’s discussions with U.S. officials, focusing on counter-terrorism cooperation and ways to strengthen the strategic security partnership between Nigeria and the United States.

Also, Ribadu confirmed a visit from a U.S. Congressional delegation aimed at assessing mutual security interests, which reflects the importance both nations attach to improving their collaborative efforts in addressing security concerns.