U.S. Deploys 100 Troops to Nigeria for Counter-Terrorism

Approximately 100 U.S. troops have arrived in Nigeria to assist in military support missions aimed at counter-terrorism operations. This deployment comes nearly two months after the United States conducted airstrikes in Sokoto State targeting an Islamic State-linked group.

The U.S. servicemen arrived at Bauchi Airfield in northern Nigeria, as confirmed by Samaila Uba, spokesperson for the Defence Headquarters. The mission is intended to help Nigerian troops effectively identify and neutralize extremist terrorist groups that threaten national stability.

The U.S. will provide access to special technical capabilities to strengthen Nigeria's ability to deter terrorist threats and enhance the protection of vulnerable communities across the country. This deployment follows a formal request from the Nigerian government for training and technical support, including intelligence sharing.

The U.S. Africa Command has stated that the troops will not engage in combat but will strictly serve in an advisory capacity.

Last week, reports indicated that the U.S. military plans to send a total of 200 troops to Nigeria, with the first wave arriving around Christmas.