The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has addressed recent media reports and public speculation suggesting the presence or deployment of United States troops in Nigeria.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) emphasized that Nigeria maintained a long-standing security partnership with the United States, focused on capacity building, professional military education, intelligence sharing, logistics support, and strategic dialogue. The DHQ stressed that all cooperation is conducted with full respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty and within existing bilateral frameworks.
According to a release signed by Major General Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, a recent two-day high-level Working Group engagement brought together senior U.S. government officials and Nigerian counterparts at the Office of the National Security Adviser. The discussions aimed to strengthen cooperation mechanisms, improve coordination, and enhance accountability in joint efforts to combat terrorism and transnational threats while ensuring civilian protection. Proposals from the meeting are currently under review by Nigerian authorities.
The Defence Headquarters reassured citizens that all international defence engagements are guided by national interest, measurable outcomes, and the protection of Nigeria’s sovereignty.
“The AFN remains committed to safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity while collaborating with credible partners to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture without compromising independence”the statement concluded.
