DHQ clears air on alleged US troop presence in Nigeria
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has addressed widespread media reports and public discussions claiming that United States troops have been deployed or are operating in Nigeria.
Reports on Wednesday alleged that the US sent a “small team” of troops to Nigeria after recent security engagements between both nations.
Responding on Thursday, the director of defence information, Samaila Uba, explained that Nigeria and the United States share a long-established and well-structured security relationship founded on mutual respect.
According to him, the partnership focuses on capacity development, professional military training, intelligence exchange, logistics assistance, and strategic consultations, all designed to combat common challenges such as terrorism and transnational organised crime.
“All engagements are conducted in full respect of Nigeria’s sovereignty and in accordance with existing bilateral frameworks,” the statement reads.
Uba noted that the clarification follows a two-day high-level US-Nigeria working group meeting recently held in Abuja at the office of the national security adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu. The meeting brought together senior officials from both countries.
He added that the discussions built on earlier engagements held in the United States and centred on practical steps to improve coordination between both sides.
Issues raised included suggestions to strengthen existing cooperation channels, boost accountability in joint counter-terrorism efforts, and reinforce measures for civilian protection and community safety.
The director of defence information stressed that these proposals are still being reviewed by appropriate Nigerian authorities and have not received approval.
He reaffirmed that Nigeria’s defence collaborations, including those involving foreign partners, are driven by national interest, clear outcomes, and unwavering respect for sovereignty.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain fully committed to safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity while working with credible partners in ways that strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture without compromising national independence,” he said.