US Military Personnel Deployed to Nigeria for Counter-Terror Training Support

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed the arrival of approximately 100 United States military personnel in Nigeria to support the Armed Forces in counter-terrorism operations.

In a statement issued on Monday and signed by Major General Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, the DHQ disclosed that the US military trainers and associated equipment arrived at Bauchi Airfield as part of a structured bilateral defence cooperation.

According to the statement, the deployment followed a formal request by the Federal Government of Nigeria to the United States government after deliberations between a Nigerian delegation and its US counterpart during a working group engagement.

The Defence Headquarters emphasized that the US personnel are not combat troops but technical specialists deployed strictly in advisory and training capacities.

“The arrival is planned and deliberate following a formal request by the Federal Government of Nigeria to the US government to support clearly defined military training requirements, technical support, and intelligence sharing,” the statement said.

The collaboration is expected to provide Nigeria access to specialized technical capabilities aimed at strengthening its ability to deter terrorist threats and improve the protection of vulnerable communities across the country.

The DHQ further assured Nigerians that all activities involving the US personnel would be conducted under the authority’s direction and control of the Nigerian government in close coordination with the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

As part of the arrangement, Nigerian troops will begin a series of joint training engagements and intelligence-focused cooperation initiatives with US advisers. The training is designed to enhance the capacity of Nigerian forces to identify and neutralize extremist groups seeking to destabilize the country.

Reaffirming the military’s commitment to national security, the Defence Headquarters stated that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain fully dedicated to degrading and defeating terrorist organisations, threatening the country’s sovereignty and the safety of its citizens.

The DHQ also pledged continued transparency, assuring the public of timely and accurate updates regarding the ongoing military cooperation efforts.