Minister of Defence Christopher Gwabin Musa has affirmed that the Nigerian Armed Forces remain fully in charge of all military operations nationwide, despite the presence of United States personnel offering training and advisory assistance.
The minister gave the assurance at the maiden monthly operational briefing held at the Ministry of Defence headquarters in Abuja. The meeting was attended by the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, service chiefs, and senior intelligence and operational officials.
Addressing the involvement of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), Musa clarified that American troops are in Nigeria strictly for training, surveillance, and advisory roles, stressing that operational command rests solely with Nigerian authorities.
In a statement, Special Adviser on Media to the Defence Minister, Colonel Timothy Antigha (Rtd), said the session focused on reinforcing strategies to combat terrorism, insurgency, and banditry. He noted that the minister commended the commitment of Nigerian troops and reaffirmed the ministry’s dedication to their welfare and operational efficiency.
“The briefing allowed the Minister to assess ongoing operations, provide strategic guidance, and ensure that Nigeria’s security forces remain in full control of domestic military operations,” the statement said.
Musa’s remarks come amid heightened public attention over the presence of foreign troops in Nigeria and concerns about the extent of their involvement in national security operations.
