The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced the arrival of approximately 100 United States military personnel in Nigeria to support the training and operational capacity of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
In a statement dated February 16, 2026, and signed by Major General Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, the DHQ disclosed that the U.S. personnel and associated equipment arrived at Bauchi Airfield as part of a bilateral defence cooperation initiative.
According to the statement, the deployment followed engagements between a Nigerian delegation and its U.S. counterparts, culminating in a formal request by the Federal Government of Nigeria for specific military support.
“The deployment forms part of the deliberation during a working group engagement by Nigerian delegation and its US counterpart,” the statement read. “The arrival is planned and deliberate following a formal request by the Federal Government of Nigeria to the US government to support a clearly defined military training requirement, technical support and intelligence sharing with the members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.”
The DHQ clarified that the U.S. personnel are not combat troops but technical specialists serving strictly in advisory and training roles.
“The US personnel are technical specialists serving strictly in an advisory and training capacity. They are not combat forces,” the statement said, adding that “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.”
The collaboration is expected to provide access to specialized technical capabilities aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s ability to deter terrorist threats and enhance protection for vulnerable communities nationwide.
“Nigerian troops, alongside these advisers, will commence a series of joint training engagements and intelligence focused cooperation initiatives,” the DHQ stated. “These activities are designed to enhance the capacity of Nigerian troops to effectively identify and neutralize extremist terrorist groups seeking to destabilize the nation.”
Reaffirming the military’s resolve, the DHQ stressed that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain committed to degrading and defeating terrorist organisations threatening the country’s sovereignty and security.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain fully committed to degrading and defeating terrorist organizations that threaten the country’s sovereignty, national security and the safety of its citizens,” the statement added.
Major General Uba assured Nigerians of transparency in the ongoing defence cooperation.
“The DHQ assures Nigerians of continued transparency and the provision of clear, accurate and timely information regarding the military cooperation efforts.”
