DHQ Confirms Arrival of US Military Troops, Equipment for Counterterrorism Support
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed the arrival of approximately 100 United States military personnel and associated equipment at Bauchi Airfield to support the operational and training needs of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
According to the DHQ, the deployment follows deliberations reached during a working group engagement between Nigerian and US defence delegations. The move comes after a formal request by the Federal Government of Nigeria to the US government for assistance in meeting clearly defined military training requirements, technical support, and intelligence-sharing objectives.
In a statement issued on Monday by Major General Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, the military high command emphasized that the US personnel are technical specialists serving strictly in advisory and training capacities, and not as combat forces.
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“The collaboration will provide access to specialized technical capabilities aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s ability to deter terrorist threats and enhance the protection of vulnerable communities across the country,” the statement said.
The DHQ clarified that all training activities will be conducted under the authority, direction, and control of the Nigerian government, in close coordination with the Armed Forces of Nigeria. Nigerian troops are expected to commence a series of joint training engagements alongside the US advisers, with a strong focus on intelligence-driven operations and counterterrorism effectiveness.
Military authorities explained that the initiative is designed to enhance the capacity of Nigerian troops to identify, disrupt, and neutralize extremist groups seeking to destabilize the country.
Reaffirming its commitment to national security, the Armed Forces of Nigeria pledged to intensify efforts to degrade and defeat terrorist organizations threatening the nation’s sovereignty and the safety of its citizens.
The Defence Headquarters also assured Nigerians of continued transparency, promising clear, accurate, and timely updates regarding the progress of the bilateral military cooperation efforts.
By PRNigeria
