 |
| Image: Facebook |
The United States has sent a “small team” of military personnel to Nigeria as part of enhanced security cooperation between the two countries. The deployment was confirmed by General Dagvin Anderson, head of the US Africa Command (AFRICOM), during a press briefing on Tuesday.
This announcement represents the first public acknowledgment of American military presence in Nigeria since missile strikes were carried out on terrorist targets in Sokoto state on Christmas Day during former President Donald Trump’s administration.
General Anderson explained that the deployment followed discussions with President Bola Tinubu during a meeting in Rome late last year. He stated, “That has led to increased collaboration between our nations, to include a small U.S. team that brings some unique capabilities from the United States in order to augment what Nigeria has been doing for several years.”
Details regarding the size of the team, its specific mission, or the exact timing of its arrival in Nigeria were not disclosed. However, officials emphasized that the deployment is intended to complement Nigerian efforts in addressing ongoing security challenges.
Earlier, Allison Hooker, US under-secretary of state, led a delegation from eight federal agencies to Abuja to participate in a bilateral working group with Nigerian security officials. The Nigerian team was headed by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.
The meeting was partly prompted by Nigeria’s designation as a ‘country of particular concern’ (CPC) during the Trump administration. At the time, Trump had warned of sending American troops to Nigeria “guns-a-blazing to wipe out the terrorists killing our Christians.”
On December 25, 2025, the US conducted airstrikes targeting two terrorist encampments in Bauni Forest, Tangaza Local Government Area, Sokoto state. These strikes were intended to disrupt terrorist operations and reinforce ongoing counterterrorism efforts in the region.
The current deployment underscores Washington’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s security initiatives, while also signaling a deepening of bilateral military cooperation. Both nations have expressed interest in sharing intelligence, resources, and tactical expertise to combat terrorist groups that have operated in northern Nigeria for several years.
General Anderson described the deployment as a measure to “augment” Nigerian efforts rather than replace or lead them, emphasizing the collaborative nature of the operation.
“This small U.S. team brings some unique capabilities from the United States in order to augment what Nigeria has been doing for several years,” he reiterated, highlighting the longstanding partnership between the two nations in counterterrorism operations.
The development follows a series of diplomatic and military engagements between the US and Nigeria aimed at improving regional security, countering extremist threats, and protecting civilian populations. While specifics remain limited, officials insist the deployment reflects ongoing coordination and mutual strategic objectives.
As both countries continue to navigate the complex security landscape in northern Nigeria, the US presence is expected to support intelligence sharing, operational planning, and technical expertise in the fight against terrorism.
#UnitedStates
#Nigeria
#NollywoodTimes
No comments:
Post a Comment