DHQ confirms arrival of 100 US military trainers, equipment in Nigeria

 

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed the arrival of 100 US military personnel and equipment in Nigeria, saying they arrived at Bauchi airfield. Defence spokesman, Samaila Uba, in a statement on Monday, said the deployment follows a recent security agreement between Nigeria and the US.

Uba noted that the Federal Government had made a formal request to the US for assistance in terms of military training, technical support, and intelligence sharing with the members of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

“The collaboration will provide access to specialised technical capabilities aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s ability to deter terrorists’ threats and enhance the protection of vulnerable communities across the country,” the statement reads.

Uba said the US personnel are technical specialists serving strictly in an advisory and training capacity.

Noting that the US personnel are not combat forces, the defence spokesman noted that all training activities will be conducted under the authority, direction and control of the federal government and in close coordination with the Nigerian military.

• Role: The U.S. personnel are technical specialists serving strictly in advisory and training capacities; they are not combat forces.
• Command: All activities will be conducted under the authority and control of the Nigerian Government, in close coordination with the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).
• Objectives: The collaboration aims to enhance the AFN's ability to identify and neutralize terrorist threats, improve tactical coordination, and protect vulnerable communities.
• Context: This move signals an easing of recent tensions between the U.S. and Nigeria. It follows previous U.S. military actions in the region, including airstrikes against Islamic State-affiliated militants in late 2025.

Additional reports suggest the total planned deployment for the year could reach approximately 200 personnel.