The Defence Headquarters has confirmed that 100 US military personnel and equipment have arrived in Nigeria, landing at Bauchi airfield under a new security cooperation agreement.
Defence spokesman Samaila Uba said the deployment followed a formal request by the Federal Government for training, technical assistance and intelligence collaboration with the Nigerian Armed Forces.
He explained that the US team would operate strictly in advisory and training roles, not combat duties, and all activities would remain under Nigeria’s authority. According to him, “The collaboration will provide access to specialised technical capabilities aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s ability to deter terrorists’ threats and enhance the protection of vulnerable communities across the country.”
Joint training exercises and intelligence cooperation are expected to begin soon. Uba added that, “These activities are designed to enhance the capacity of Nigerian troops to effectively identify and neutralize extremist terrorist groups seeking to destabilize the nation.”
The deployment comes amid pressure from Donald Trump, who previously criticised Nigeria’s security record and designated the country a nation of concern — a claim Nigerian authorities rejected.
Meanwhile, US Africa Command, led by Dagvin Anderson, confirmed a small team is focused on intelligence support. Officials insist the partnership centres on capacity building and respects Nigeria’s sovereignty.
Nigeria continues to battle multiple armed groups, including Boko Haram and ISWAP, as insecurity persists across several regions.
