Federal Government Clarifies Role of US Troops in Nigeria's Counter-Terrorism Efforts
The Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a detailed clarification regarding the presence of United States military personnel within the country, emphasizing that their deployment is strictly limited to providing intelligence support and conducting training exercises. This official statement comes in direct response to growing public debate and concerns over national sovereignty, which were reignited following an announcement by the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM).
AFRICOM Confirms Deployment at Nigeria's Request
According to reports from ARISE, the clarification was necessitated by AFRICOM's confirmation on Tuesday that a small team of American personnel had been deployed to Nigeria. General Dagvin Anderson, the AFRICOM Commander, speaking from Dakar, stated unequivocally that this deployment was made at the specific request of Nigerian authorities. He described the partnership as a prime example of collaboration with a willing and capable ally seeking unique capabilities that only the United States can provide.
The focus of this deployment, as outlined by General Anderson, is strictly on intelligence assistance, aimed at bolstering Nigeria's ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and insurgency. This move is part of a broader framework of international cooperation against violent extremism, which has seen renewed vigor in recent months.
Defence Minister Addresses Sovereignty Concerns Directly
The announcement sparked immediate speculation and unease among some segments of the Nigerian public, with fears emerging that the presence of foreign troops might undermine the nation's sovereignty. In a candid interview with the BBC, Defence Minister General Christopher Musa (rtd) moved swiftly to address these concerns. He clarified that the US personnel are not combat troops but rather a small advisory team dedicated to supporting intelligence gathering and training initiatives.
While Minister Musa did not disclose specific details regarding the team's size, arrival date, location, or duration of stay, he reaffirmed the government's commitment to maintaining control over all security operations. Observers have noted that this deployment follows earlier joint efforts, such as the air interdiction operations conducted on December 25, 2025, by the US military in collaboration with the Armed Forces of Nigeria across multiple locations in the North-West and North-Central regions.
APC Reaffirms Nigeria's Independence in Security Partnerships
Reacting to the public debate, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly reaffirmed that Nigeria's cooperation with the United States remains fully coordinated and does not compromise the country's independence. During an interview on ARISE Television, the party's National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Felix Morka, emphasized that US support in counter-terrorism efforts poses no threat to Nigeria's sovereignty.
"What we know is that the US government and Nigerian authorities are working very closely to defeat terrorism in our country," Morka stated. "Terrorism has brought immense pain and suffering to our people, with innocent citizens killed senselessly by these violent actors." He further highlighted President Bola Tinubu's resolute stance in taking all necessary measures to eliminate terrorist threats and restore security nationwide.
Coordinated Efforts Against Growing Terrorist Threats
Dismissing suggestions that this collaboration amounts to foreign intervention, Morka explained that such concerns typically arise when host nations are excluded from decision-making processes—a situation he firmly noted does not apply to Nigeria. "That is not the case here," he asserted. "This is a coordinated effort between the Nigerian government and the United States, with both sides fully involved in all decisions."
According to Morka, any actions implemented on the ground will reflect agreements jointly reached by both governments, ensuring that Nigerian interests are paramount. "Whatever is agreed at the table is what will be implemented," he added, stressing that the primary objective remains the protection of Nigerian lives and the definitive defeat of terrorist groups.
This development underscores Nigeria's role as a key partner in the international campaign against terrorist organizations such as ISIS and Al-Qaeda affiliates in West Africa and the Sahel. As General Anderson pointed out, the growing threat posed by these groups highlights the urgent need for robust regional and international cooperation to safeguard stability and security across the continent.
