The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced the arrival of 100 United States military personnel and associated equipment at Bauchi airfield. According to a statement by Samaila Uba, Defence Director of Information, the deployment is in line with a recent security agreement between Nigeria and the US.
The federal government had formally requested assistance from the US in terms of military training, technical support, and intelligence sharing with the Nigerian Armed Forces. This collaboration will provide Nigeria with access to specialized technical capabilities, aimed at strengthening its ability to counter terrorist threats and protect vulnerable communities.
The US personnel are technical specialists serving in an advisory and training capacity only, and are not combat forces. All training activities will be conducted under the authority, direction, and control of the federal government and in close coordination with the Nigerian military.
In the coming days, Nigerian troops will commence joint training engagements and intelligence-focused cooperation initiatives with the US trainers. These activities are designed to enhance the capacity of Nigerian troops to identify and neutralize extremist terrorist groups seeking to destabilize the nation.
The military remains committed to degrading and defeating terrorist groups that threaten Nigeria’s sovereignty, national security, and the safety of its citizens. The DHQ assured Nigerians of transparency and the provision of clear, accurate, and timely information regarding the military cooperation efforts.
