The United States has reportedly deployed approximately 200 military personnel to Nigeria to enhance the country’s counterterrorism capacity through training and strategic support. The move comes amid renewed security cooperation between both nations in addressing extremist violence.
According to reports, the deployed troops are expected to focus on strengthening Nigeria’s military capabilities, particularly in intelligence coordination, operational planning, and specialised training. The personnel will complement existing U.S. military advisers who have been working with Nigerian forces in an advisory capacity.
The development follows recent remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump criticising Nigeria’s handling of attacks targeting Christian communities. However, American and Nigerian officials have framed the deployment as part of a broader security partnership rather than a direct combat mission.
Commander of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), Gen. Dagvin R. Anderson, confirmed increased collaboration between both governments after high-level engagements, including discussions with President Bola Tinubu. He noted that the partnership aims to enhance regional security and reinforce ongoing counterterrorism efforts.
Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters clarified that the cooperation is strictly focused on capacity building. Military authorities emphasised that the arrangement covers professional military education, intelligence sharing, logistics support, and strategic dialogue, rather than the deployment of foreign combat forces.
In a formal statement, the Defence Headquarters stressed that all engagements are conducted within established bilateral agreements and with full respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty. The clarification followed public speculation suggesting a more extensive foreign military presence.
The latest engagement signals deepening defence ties between Abuja and Washington, as both countries seek to address persistent insurgency and broader security threats in West Africa through coordinated but sovereignty-conscious collaboration.
