No U.S. Troops In Nigeria, Says Defence Headquarters
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has addressed recent media reports and public speculation alleging the presence or deployment of United States troops in Nigeria, describing such claims as misleading.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) reaffirmed that Nigeria maintains a long-standing, structured security partnership with the United States, founded on mutual respect and clearly defined bilateral frameworks.
According to the DHQ, the partnership focuses on capacity building, professional military education, intelligence sharing, logistics support, and strategic dialogue aimed at addressing shared security challenges such as terrorism and other transnational threats. All engagements, the military stressed, are conducted with full respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty.
The statement further disclosed that a recent two-day high-level Working Group meeting was held between senior U.S. government officials and their Nigerian counterparts at the Office of the National Security Adviser. The engagement followed earlier meetings in the United States and reflects a mature, trust-based relationship geared towards practical security outcomes.
Discussions at the meeting included proposals to strengthen existing cooperation mechanisms, improve coordination, and enhance accountability in joint counter-terrorism efforts, while prioritising the protection of civilians and community safety. The DHQ noted that these proposals are currently under review by relevant Nigerian authorities.
Reiterating Nigeria’s position, the Defence Headquarters emphasised that all international defence engagements are guided strictly by national interest, measurable outcomes, and the preservation of Nigeria’s sovereignty.
The military reassured Nigerians that all defence partnerships remain transparent, policy-driven, and consistent with constitutional provisions, stressing that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain fully committed to safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity without compromising national independence.
The statement was signed by Major General Samaila Uba, Director, Defence Information.
