By Ruth Dabo
The Commandant of the National Defence College, Rear Admiral Abdullahi Ahmed, has highlighted the evolving strategic posture of the United States, noting that Washington is navigating a delicate balance between great-power competition and its enduring commitments to counterterrorism, maritime security and democratic governance, particularly in Africa and the Global South.
Rear Admiral Ahmed made the remarks during a high-level roundtable organised by the Centre for Strategic Research and Studies, titled “United States Strategic Repositioning from Selected Global Institutions: Implications for Multilateral Cooperation, Security Partnerships, and Climate Governance.
In his opening address, the Commandant explained that the roundtable was convened in response to changing dynamics in US global engagement. He observed that renewed emphasis on alliance structures and intensifying competition among emerging geopolitical blocs could either strengthen or strain multilateral institutions, depending on how future partnerships are designed and implemented.
Rear Admiral Ahmed identified trans-national threats such as terrorism, cybercrime and irregular migration as critical areas requiring sustained international collaboration. He also stressed the need for structural reforms, equitable burden-sharing and institutional adjustments within collective security frameworks. Additionally, he underscored the importance of integrating climate governance and environmental stability into broader security considerations.
The Commandant further called for deeper Nigeria–US cooperation, particularly in addressing security challenges across Africa, including instability in the Sahel and the Gulf of Guinea. He advocated enhanced intelligence sharing, advanced training and capacity building, noting that Nigeria’s leadership role in West Africa places it at the forefront of regional security responses. He also emphasised the importance of African-led solutions supported by partnerships that respect sovereignty and mutual interests.
Earlier, the Provost of CSRS, Professor A.O. Ahmed, welcomed participants and described the forum as timely, given the direct impact of US strategic policies on Nigeria’s national security. He expressed confidence that the deliberations would generate practical recommendations to strengthen bilateral relations and promote effective multilateral cooperation in an increasingly complex global environment.
The event brought together senior officials from the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Ministries of Defence and Foreign Affairs, as well as representatives of intelligence agencies, emergency management institutions, private sector policy actors and international partners. Discussions focused on the implications of recent shifts in US defence posture and alliance systems for global and regional stability.
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