The Defence Headquarters Nigeria has confirmed the arrival of about 100 personnel from the United States military, alongside specialised equipment, at the Bauchi Airfield, signalling a fresh phase in bilateral security cooperation.
In a statement on Monday, the Director of Defence Information, Samaila Uba, clarified that the visiting contingent comprises technical specialists assigned strictly to advisory and training duties, not combat operations.
Uba stressed that all activities would be conducted under the authority and operational control of the Federal Government of Nigeria, with full alignment to Nigeria’s security priorities.
He noted that the programme would be executed in close coordination with the Armed Forces of Nigeria, ensuring local command oversight and adherence to national rules of engagement.
According to the Defence spokesman, Nigerian troops and their foreign counterparts are set to begin joint training exercises and intelligence-focused cooperation aimed at sharpening operational effectiveness against extremist and terrorist threats.
The initiative, he said, is designed to strengthen skills in identifying, tracking and neutralising terror elements, as Nigeria intensifies efforts to safeguard sovereignty and protect civilians.
Uba disclosed that the deployment followed deliberations at a bilateral working group meeting between Nigerian officials and the United States Government.
He added that the engagement was activated by a formal request from Nigeria seeking targeted military training support, technical assistance and intelligence sharing.
Beyond immediate training gains, the partnership is expected to unlock specialised technical capabilities that bolster deterrence and improve protection for vulnerable communities.
Reiterating the military’s commitment to transparency, the Defence Headquarters assured Nigerians of timely updates while sustaining strategic partnerships to reinforce the nation’s security architecture.