Boko Haram: 100 U.S. Troops Arrive in Nigeria
Last update: February 16, 2026
Disclaimer: This website may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you click on the link and make a purchase. We only recommend products or services that we personally use and believe will add value to our readers. Your support is appreciated!
Defence headquarter confirms arrival of 100 U.S. military personnel in Nigeria...
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) on Monday confirmed the arrival of about 100 United States military personnel and associated equipment in Nigeria.
CBI News reports that the military high command disclosed that the U.S. troops and equipment landed at the Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport, Bauchi State.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the Director of Defence Information, Maj. Gen. Samaila Uba, said the deployment was a product of deliberations during a working group engagement between Nigerian and United States delegations.
“The Defence Headquarters wishes to announce the arrival of about 100 United States military personnel and associated equipment at Bauchi Airfield. The deployment forms part of the deliberations during a working group engagement between a Nigerian delegation and its U.S. counterpart,” Uba said.
He explained that the arrival was planned and executed after a formal request by the Federal Government of Nigeria for specific military training, technical assistance and intelligence support.
“The arrival is planned and deliberate, following a formal request by the Federal Government of Nigeria to the U.S. Government to support clearly defined military training requirements, technical support, and intelligence sharing with members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” he added.
Uba stressed that the U.S. personnel are serving strictly in advisory and training capacities, not as combat forces.
“The collaboration will provide access to specialised technical capabilities aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s ability to deter terrorist threats and enhance the protection of vulnerable communities across the country.
"The U.S. personnel are technical specialists serving strictly in an advisory and training capacity.
"They are not combat forces.
“All training activities will be conducted under the authority, direction, and control of the Nigerian Government and in close coordination with the Nigerian Armed Forces,” he stated.
According to the defence spokesman, Nigerian troops and the U.S. advisers will begin a series of joint training and intelligence-focused initiatives.
“Nigerian troops, alongside these advisers, will commence a series of joint training engagements and intelligence-focused cooperation initiatives.
“These activities are designed to enhance the capacity of Nigerian troops to effectively identify and neutralise extremist terrorist groups seeking to destabilise the nation. The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain fully committed to degrading and defeating terrorist organisations that threaten the country’s sovereignty, national security, and the safety of its citizens,” Uba said.
