The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) and the Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, have confirmed the arrival of about 100 United States military personnel and equipment in Nigeria to assist in counter-terrorism operations through training and technical support.
According to military authorities, the personnel arrived at Bauchi Airfield under a bilateral defence cooperation agreement between Nigeria and the United States, following a formal request by the Federal Government. The deployment was agreed upon during a joint working group engagement aimed at addressing specific training needs, technical support, and intelligence-sharing gaps within the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
The DHQ emphasised that the visiting personnel are serving strictly in advisory and training capacities and will not participate in combat operations. All activities will be conducted under the authority and control of the Nigerian Government in close coordination with national military leadership.
“The collaboration will provide Nigerian troops with access to specialised technical capabilities, strengthening their ability to deter terrorist threats and protect vulnerable communities,” the DHQ stated. Joint training and intelligence-focused initiatives are set to commence immediately to enhance the capacity of troops to identify and neutralise extremist groups destabilising the nation.
Speaking to The Nation, Defence Minister Christopher Musa reaffirmed that the U.S. troops’ presence in Bauchi State is part of a federal government-approved training and technological support mission. He highlighted that the American personnel would assist Nigerian forces with advanced technology, drones, and satellites, vital tools in the ongoing fight against terrorism and banditry.
General Musa assured that Nigeria’s sovereignty is not threatened, noting that the operation is temporary and conducted under clear agreements. “Collaboration is standard practice globally. Nigeria has previously partnered with countries such as Liberia, Tanzania, and Sierra Leone in similar initiatives. The U.S. support here respects our sovereignty and will conclude once objectives are achieved,” he stated.
The DHQ and Defence Minister both reassured citizens of transparency throughout the cooperation, pledging timely and accurate updates as the capacity-building activities progress.