U.S. Reduces Military Presence in Nigeria, Maintains Support

The United States has begun to scale down its military presence in Nigeria after completing a joint counterterrorism mission in the Lake Chad Basin. General Dagvin R.

Anderson announced this development during a virtual press briefing on Thursday, explaining that while American troop deployment is temporarily reduced, Washington remains committed to supporting Nigeria's campaign against the Islamic State (ISI/Daesh). The recent operations have significantly impacted regional security and contributed to global efforts to weaken terrorist networks.

The U.S. Air Force praised Nigeria's military capabilities, describing it as one of America's strongest security partners in Africa.

Anderson emphasized the importance of continued intelligence sharing to effectively combat terrorism and organized crime. The U.S. deployed 200 military personnel to Nigeria in February 2026 to support intelligence surveillance and counterterror operations in the Lake Chad Basin, following a pledge by U.S.

President Donald Trump to increase support for Nigeria's fight against terrorism.