Commander of the U.S. Africa Command, Michael Langley.

Commander of the U.S. Africa Command,  Michael Langley.

The United States Marine Corps has assured Nigeria of strengthening the bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

The Commander of the U.S. Africa Command,  Michael Langley, and the Command’s Senior Enlisted Leader to Nigeria, Michael Woods, during their recent visit to Nigeria, said the bilateral cooperation would counter violent extremism and support the latter in its fight against insecurity.

In a statement made available to Saturday Punch, Langley said the mutual understanding and training between the United States and the Nigerian militaries were essential in addressing the evolving security landscape in West Africa and advancing common interests.

According to the statement, “The leaders discussed opportunities to strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two nations, efforts to counter violent extremism in the region, and Nigeria’s leadership when addressing regional security. Langley reaffirmed the United States’ long-standing cooperation with Nigeria, which has the largest population, economy, and democracy in Africa.

“Cooperation and training between the U.S. and Nigerian militaries is vital in addressing the evolving security landscape in West Africa and advancing common interests.

“This visit underscores the United States’ commitment to work in partnership with West African nations in promoting security, stability, and prosperity across the region. Around West Africa, extremist groups exploit weak governance and environmental stressors, causing instability. This insecurity not only affects the region but also poses a global threat by fostering terrorism and exacerbating humanitarian crises.”