Editorial: Commendable progress, but the fight must continue

The reported acknowledgement by United States President Donald Trump, in a personal letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, of Nigeria’s efforts to combat terrorism and insecurity is a welcome development. It reflects growing international recognition of the determination of the Nigerian Government to confront one of the country’s most pressing challenges.

For years, terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes have undermined national security, disrupted economic activities and inflicted untold suffering on millions of Nigerians. The battle has been long, difficult and costly. Any genuine progress deserves recognition, particularly when it comes from a strategic partner such as the United States.

Nigeria and the United States have maintained security cooperation for decades through intelligence sharing, military training, capacity building and counter-terrorism support. Terrorism  is increasingly transnational, so no nation can successfully confront the threat in isolation. Strong partnerships remain indispensable in defeating violent extremists and criminal networks.

The United States deserves commendation for continuing to support Nigeria’s security efforts. Assistance in intelligence gathering, surveillance, military training, technology and logistics has strengthened the capabilities of Nigerian security agencies. Such cooperation should be expanded to address emerging threats, including cybercrime, terrorism financing and cross-border criminal activities.

The Nigerian Government also deserves credit for the renewed determination it has demonstrated in confronting insecurity. In recent months, security forces have recorded notable successes against terrorist groups, dismantled criminal hideouts, rescued kidnapped victims and neutralised several notorious criminal elements. While security challenges remain, these achievements demonstrate that sustained commitment and improved coordination can produce meaningful results.

The administration’s resolve to strengthen the armed forces, improve intelligence coordination and enhance collaboration among security agencies has contributed to these gains. Communities across several parts of the country have begun to experience improved security, and this may have allowed farmers to return to their fields and businesses to resume activities that have previously been disrupted by violence.

However, neither commendation nor international recognition should create any sense of satisfaction. The reality is that insecurity continues to cast a long shadow over many parts of Nigeria. Terrorist attacks, kidnappings for ransom, communal violence and organised criminality remain serious threats. Too many communities still live in fear. Too many families continue to mourn loved ones lost to violence.

The Federal Government must therefore treat recent successes as a foundation rather than a destination. Military operations should be sustained with renewed vigour until terrorist and criminal groups are completely dismantled. Intelligence gathering must become even more proactive, while modern surveillance technology should be deployed more extensively across vulnerable areas.

Greater attention must also be given to policing, border security and the swift prosecution of those arrested for terrorism and other violent crimes. Justice delayed weakens public confidence and emboldens criminals. Equally important is the welfare of members of the armed forces and other security agencies. Better equipment, improved remuneration, adequate healthcare and enhanced support for the families of fallen personnel remain essential.

Beyond military action, government must address the social and economic conditions that allow violent extremism and organised crime to flourish. Youth unemployment, poverty, inadequate education and weak local governance continue to create opportunities for criminal recruitment. Lasting peace requires not only military victories but also economic opportunities and social inclusion.

The United States and Nigeria should therefore deepen their cooperation beyond security operations. Investments in education, economic development, technology and institutional strengthening will help tackle some of the underlying causes of insecurity while reinforcing democratic governance.

The acknowledgement reportedly extended by President Trump should encourage Nigeria to intensify rather than relax its efforts. International praise is valuable, but the ultimate measure of success is whether every Nigerian can live, work and travel without fear.

The Federal Government has demonstrated renewed determination and recorded encouraging gains. It must now build on that momentum until security is restored across every part of the country. Nigerians deserve nothing less.