US Military Support to Nigeria Comes at No Financial Cost, Says Defence Headquarters
The Defence Headquarters has officially stated that the military training, intelligence sharing, and operational support provided to Nigeria by the United States come at no financial cost. This arrangement is described as an integral part of Washington's global counterterrorism policy, aimed at bolstering international security efforts.
Strategic Partnership Through AFRICOM
Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, disclosed this information during a briefing with journalists on Friday, February 27, 2026. The briefing focused on military operations conducted against terrorists and criminal elements throughout February. According to Onoja, the support is facilitated through the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) under a strategic partnership designed to enhance Nigeria's capabilities in combating terrorism.
"The presence of US troops in Nigeria is about partnership. They are here to assist the Nigerian military with training, intelligence, and other needed support," Onoja emphasized. "It is the policy of the United States to fight terrorism globally. So their presence in Nigeria is at no cost. The training assistance is at no cost. The US government is only interested in combating terrorism."
Addressing Security Concerns in Adamawa and North-West
In response to concerns over renewed attacks and kidnappings in Adamawa State and parts of the North-West region, Onoja dismissed suggestions of fresh terrorist infiltration. He attributed these incidents to fighters fleeing sustained military pressure, rather than new incursions.
"It is not a fresh infiltration of terrorists in those areas. The truth is that with the US support we are getting and the pressure from our troops' offensives, the terrorists are fleeing to new places and trying to show relevance," he explained.
Onoja assured Nigerians that military operations are being intensified to address these threats. "I assure you that attacks on the terrorists are being carried out by troops and the decimation of their activities is ongoing. At the end of the day, these terrorists will get tired, and we will smoke them out wherever they are," he stated. "Though we sympathise with those who have lost loved ones in the hands of these terrorists, we are closing in on them. We are on top of the situation."
State Government Peace Deals and National Security
On the topic of some state governments entering into peace deals with armed groups, Onoja noted that while Nigeria operates a federal system, such agreements must not exclude national security authorities. "Nigeria is a federation, and state governments, as federating units, have the right to enter into any agreement they wish. But they cannot do that without the knowledge of the National Security Adviser," he clarified.
Review of Deradicalisation Programme
The Defence Headquarters also acknowledged public concerns regarding some repentant militants who have participated in the Operation Safe Corridor deradicalisation programme. Onoja revealed that authorities are currently reviewing the initiative in collaboration with relevant stakeholders. He added that officials are aware of Nigerians' concerns and are taking proactive steps to address them effectively.
This comprehensive briefing underscores the ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria's security framework through international partnerships and internal reviews, ensuring a coordinated approach to counterterrorism and public safety.
