The United States Department of Defense today announced plans to deploy approximately 200 U.S. military personnel to Nigeria in the coming weeks.
The deployment will focus exclusively on advisory, training, and technical support roles to assist the Nigerian Armed Forces in their ongoing efforts to combat Islamist militant groups, including those affiliated with Boko Haram and Islamic State affiliates.
This initiative builds on existing bilateral security cooperation between the United States and Nigeria, including recent intelligence-sharing efforts and coordinated operations.
The additional personnel will augment a small U.S. team already present in Nigeria, providing training, technical expertise, and guidance to Nigerian forces. U.S. troops will not participate in direct combat operations or lead missions.
The deployment follows heightened collaboration in response to persistent security challenges in northern Nigeria, where militant groups continue to threaten civilians and stability.
Recent joint efforts, including intelligence support for Nigerian-led strikes, have demonstrated the value of this partnership in degrading terrorist capabilities.
A U.S. official emphasized that the move strengthens Nigeria's own forces to more effectively address these threats while respecting Nigerian sovereignty.
"This is about building capacity and providing non-combat support at Nigeria's request to help create a more secure environment for all Nigerians," the official stated.
Nigerian officials, including representatives from the Defence Headquarters, have confirmed that U.S. personnel will operate in strictly advisory and support capacities, focusing on training, technical guidance, and operational coordination without involvement in combat.
The United States remains committed to partnering with Nigeria and other African nations to counter violent extremism, promote regional stability, and support democratic governance. This deployment underscores the strong and enduring security relationship between our two countries.