In a
firm declaration on 5, February 2026, Major General
Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, dismissed rampant media
speculation and public rumours regarding the deployment of United States troops
in Nigeria. Stressing the Armed Forces of Nigeria's (AFN) unwavering control
over national security, General Uba outlined the longstanding security
partnership with the US, centered on capacity building, professional military education,
intelligence sharing, logistics support, and strategic dialogues to tackle
terrorism and transnational threats. This statement addresses growing public
curiosity about international collaborations, reaffirming the AFN's dedication
to transparency and sovereign independence.
Grounded
in mutual respect, this partnership ensures all activities fully honour
Nigeria's sovereignty and comply with bilateral agreements. General Uba
emphasized that recent joint initiatives have produced significant results,
such as improved surveillance and intelligence that have amplified Nigeria's
counter-terrorism capabilities. For example, through these efforts, Nigerian
forces have maintained aggressive operations, disrupting terrorist activities
and securing vulnerable regions without any compromise to national autonomy.
A
pivotal event was the recent two-day high-level Working Group meeting at the
Office of the National Security Adviser, involving senior US officials and
Nigerian leaders. Building on prior discussions in the United States, the
session explored proposals to bolster cooperation, enhance coordination, and
ensure accountability in combating violent threats, all while prioritizing
civilian protection and community safety. These proposals are now under careful
review by Nigerian authorities, guided exclusively by national interests and
tangible outcomes.
The
AFN has achieved remarkable strides in counter-terrorism, with the Nigerian Air
Force marking 2025 as a banner year by eliminating over 2,351 terrorists through
precision, intelligence-driven airstrikes across multiple regions. Operations
such as HADIN KAI and FANSAN YAMMA have dismantled terror cells, destroyed
camps, and repelled attacks in areas like Borno, Katsina, and Sokoto, rescuing
civilians and seizing weapons. Recent successes include thwarting suicide
bombings, intercepting logistics networks, and neutralizing key threats,
showcasing the AFN's innovative tactics and resilience in safeguarding the
nation.
The
Defence Headquarters assures Nigerians that all defence partnerships are
transparent, driven by policy, and aligned with constitutional mandates. The
AFN remains resolute in protecting territorial integrity, partnering with
reliable allies to reinforce Nigeria's security framework without sacrificing
independence. As General Uba stated, these collaborations not only neutralize
current dangers but also foster enduring stability, establishing Nigeria as a
powerhouse in regional counter-terrorism.