The United States has deployed a contingent of one hundred soldiers to Nigeria to support local forces in combating the growing terrorist threat. The American military personnel, stationed in the northeastern part of the country, will focus on training, technical advisory, and sharing intelligence data. The mission is supportive in nature and does not include direct participation in combat operations against groups such as Boko Haram or factions linked to the Islamic State.

Training and advisory mission

100 US soldiers have arrived in Nigeria to train local forces in combating jihadists, but their direct participation in combat operations has been ruled out.

Contingent location

American military personnel have been deployed to the town of Bauchi in the northeastern part of the country, the region most affected by Boko Haram.

Intelligence support

A key element of the cooperation is intelligence data exchange and technical support, following December's US strikes on terrorist targets.

Approximately 100 American soldiers have arrived in Bauchi in northeastern Nigeria, as confirmed by official sources in the Nigerian defense command. The mission aims to enhance the operational capabilities of the Nigerian armed forces in the face of a sharp increase in terrorist group activity. Spokesperson for the military base, Samaila Uba, reported that American specialists will provide technical support and participate in intelligence information exchange. Although flight data confirms recent landings of military transport aircraft, the Pentagon and authorities in Abuja categorically emphasize that American instructors will not engage in active combat. The security situation in West Africa has significantly deteriorated, particularly in regions plagued by attacks from Boko Haram and fighters identifying with ISIS. The new contingent joins smaller groups already operating in the area, expanding the existing US presence. The decision to send troops was made following an official request from the Nigerian government, despite previous diplomatic tensions and critical remarks by Donald Trump toward that administration. Since 2009, the Boko Haram rebellion has led to the deaths of tens of thousands of people and the displacement of millions in the Lake Chad basin region. In addition to training support, modern military equipment has also been delivered to Nigeria to help curb the wave of kidnappings for ransom and destabilization by armed groups. The US Africa Command (AFRICOM) highlights Nigeria's strategic importance in maintaining stability across the entire region. Although General Dagvin R. M. Anderson previously mentioned the possibility of deploying up to 200 soldiers, the currently confirmed number is around one hundred. This cooperation is crucial for Washington, which views radical Islamism in Africa as a direct threat to global interests. The Nigerian army, despite numerous issues with supplies and morale, is set to undergo an intensive course in modern guerrilla warfare and analysis of satellite data provided by the ally. 100 — American military specialists arrived in Nigeria Development of US military presence: December 2025 — US airstrikes; February 15, 2026 — AFRICOM announcement; February 16, 2026 — Contingent arrival

Mentioned People

  • Samaila Uba — Spokesperson for the Nigerian Defense Command in Bauchi.
  • Dagvin R. M. Anderson — US Air Force General, AFRICOM commander responsible for force deployment plans.
  • Donald Trump — US President who, despite criticism of the Nigerian government, authorized the expansion of the military mission.