Faith Nyasuguta
Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed the arrival of approximately 100 United States military personnel and support equipment at Bauchi Airfield, signalling an expanded phase of bilateral security cooperation focused on counterterrorism operations.
According to a statement issued by Major General Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, the deployment followed a formal request by Nigeria’s federal government seeking enhanced training, intelligence collaboration and technical assistance. The incoming U.S. contingent is described strictly as advisers and technical specialists who will not participate in combat missions.
“The collaboration will provide access to specialized technical capabilities aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s ability to deter terrorist threats and enhance the protection of vulnerable communities across the country,” the DHQ stated.
Officials stressed that all engagements will operate under Nigerian command structures. “All training activities will be conducted under the authority, direction, and control of the Nigerian Government and in close coordination with the Nigerian Armed Forces,” the statement added, indicating that sovereignty over national security operations remains intact.
The current arrival brings the number of U.S. advisory personnel in Nigeria to roughly 100, with reports indicating that the total contingent could rise to about 200 over the course of the year. The reinforcement reflects heightened cooperation as Nigeria continues to confront persistent security threats, particularly in the northeast where Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) remain active.
Joint initiatives are expected to centre on intelligence-sharing frameworks, surveillance capabilities and specialised operational training designed to improve Nigeria’s ability to detect, disrupt and neutralise extremist networks. Military officials say the partnership will strengthen technical capacity without transferring frontline combat responsibilities to foreign forces.
Nigeria has long positioned itself as a central pillar of regional security in West Africa, and its ongoing collaboration with Washington highlights the country’s strategic importance in efforts to contain violent extremism. The expanded advisory presence also signals continued U.S. engagement in supporting counterterrorism operations across the region.
The DHQ reassured citizens that the Armed Forces remain fully committed to degrading terrorist groups and stabilising affected communities. Authorities pledged transparency regarding the scope of cooperation and said updates would be provided as activities progress.
While the American personnel will function exclusively in advisory and training roles, defence analysts note that the partnership represents a significant investment in strengthening Nigeria’s military effectiveness. As security challenges persist, both governments appear intent on deepening coordination while maintaining clear lines around operational control and national sovereignty.
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