By Paul Joseph
A contingent of at least 100 U.S. military personnel, along with their equipment, has arrived at Bauchi Airfield as part of ongoing American support in the battle against terrorism.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) made this announcement on Monday through Major General Samaila Uba, the Director of Defence Information.
The U.S. and Nigeria have significantly strengthened their defence cooperation to tackle terrorism. In response to a rise in terrorist attacks and high-level diplomatic discussions, the U.S. is providing direct military aid, intelligence, and training to assist Nigeria in its fight against Boko Haram and its offshoots.
In December 2025, the U.S. collaborated with the Nigerian military to carry out coordinated air strikes on terrorist hideouts in Sokoto State, followed by the provision of military equipment to bolster the capabilities of the Nigerian armed forces.
According to Uba, the deployment of the 100 U.S. military personnel is part of discussions held during a working group meeting between Nigerian and U.S. representatives.
He stated, “This arrival is planned and intentional, following a formal request from the Federal Government of Nigeria to the U.S. government for support in specific military training needs, technical assistance, and intelligence sharing with the Nigerian Armed Forces.”
“This partnership will provide access to specialised technical skills aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s capacity to counter terrorist threats and improve the safety of vulnerable communities nationwide.”
Uba clarified that the U.S. personnel are technical specialists who will serve solely in advisory and training roles, not as combat troops.
The Defence spokesperson noted that all training activities will be conducted under the authority and direction of the Nigerian Government, in close collaboration with the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Uba mentioned that Nigerian troops, along with U.S. advisors, will begin a series of joint training sessions and intelligence-sharing initiatives, emphasizing that these efforts are designed to strengthen the ability of Nigerian forces to effectively identify and neutralise extremist groups that pose a threat to national stability.
He reiterated that the Nigerian military is fully dedicated to “degrading and defeating” terrorist organizations that endanger the country’s sovereignty, national security, and the safety of its citizens.
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