The Federal Government of Nigeria has clarified the role of United States troops recently deployed in the country, stressing that their mission is strictly limited to intelligence support and training. The move is part of ongoing collaboration between Nigeria and the US to combat terrorism and insurgency. This clarification comes after the US Africa Command (AFRICOM) confirmed sending a small team of personnel to Nigeria at the country’s request. (AFRICOM)

AFRICOM Commander, General Dagvin Anderson, emphasized that the US team’s role is strictly advisory, focusing on intelligence assistance to strengthen Nigeria’s fight against violent extremist groups. Following public concerns, Nigeria’s Defence Minister, Gen. Christopher Musa (rtd), reassured citizens that the American personnel are not combat troops but a limited team providing training and intelligence support. Details such as the team’s size, location, and duration remain undisclosed.

The announcement has reignited debates about Nigeria’s sovereignty, with some citizens expressing concern about foreign troops operating on Nigerian soil. Responding to these worries, the All Progressives Congress (APC) stated that the collaboration is fully coordinated with Nigerian authorities and does not compromise the country’s independence. APC’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, emphasized that the US-Nigeria partnership is part of a joint effort to eliminate terrorism and protect citizens.

Morka also highlighted that President Bola Tinubu remains committed to all measures necessary to secure Nigeria and defeat terrorist threats. He clarified that all actions by US personnel are agreed upon jointly with the Nigerian government, ensuring that foreign involvement does not undermine national decision-making. Both governments continue to work closely to safeguard Nigerian lives while tackling terrorism effectively.