By Stephen Chuma

The United States continues to strengthen ties with African states on security issues and last month U.S. Airforce General Dagvin Anderson, a Commander of US Africa Command paid visits to states of Benin and Cameroon in West Africa.

The visit which took place from 16 to 20 September 2025 saw General Dagvin meeting with Benin President Patrice Talon and President Paul Biya of Cameroon. The US Airforce Commander also met with Commanders of the two countries’ security forces and US diplomats posted there.

A statement by US African Command said the purpose of General Anderson’s visit was to strengthen collaboration in addressing shared security challenges between the US and the two African nations with particular interest in countering terrorism threats.

Apart from exploring collaborative strategies to combat terrorism, issues of maritime security, and security support of Sahel and West African countries were also discussed.

According to a report by US African Command the discussions were centred on strengthening collaboration on security challenges facing the African continent which is becoming an epicenter of terrorism threats and insurgency.

After the engagements, General Anderson is quoted in a report by the US Africa Command as having said, “These engagements were invaluable opportunities to reinforce our commitment to our partners in West Africa.

“The terrorist threat has evolved, requiring increased vigilance and coordinated action. Partnerships and coordination in West Africa remain key to countering the escalating terrorism in the region. Without partnering to address terrorism, Africa becomes the next 9/11 source. We are here to strategically support efforts that strengthen and enable our African partners’ operational independence.”

Meanwhile, a correspondent of the Pentagon and White House, Pearl Matibe said the visit by the US Africa Command Commander to Africa is a reflection of the US government’s commitment to work with African states in combating terrorism and maintaining peace on the continent.

U.S. Air Force General Dagvin Anderson, Commander, U.S. Africa Command meeting with Cameroon President Paul Biya in Yaounde, Cameroon, on Sept. 19, 2025.