DHQ confirms arrival of 100 US Military troops for Counterterrorism support

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed the arrival of about 100 United States military personnel and associated equipment at the Bauchi Airfield as part of a bilateral defence cooperation initiative between Nigeria and the United States.

In a statement issued on Monday by Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, the military said the deployment followed deliberations between a Nigerian delegation and its US counterparts during a recent working group engagement.

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According to the DHQ, the presence of the US personnel is the outcome of a formal request by the Federal Government of Nigeria to the United States Government for assistance in addressing specific military training needs, technical support and intelligence-sharing requirements.

The statement clarified that the US personnel are technical specialists serving strictly in advisory and training capacities, stressing that they are not combat forces.

“All training activities will be conducted under the authority, direction and control of the Nigerian Government and in close coordination with the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

“The collaboration will provide Nigeria with access to specialised technical capabilities aimed at strengthening its capacity to deter terrorist threats and enhance the protection of vulnerable communities across the country.

“Under the arrangement, Nigerian troops will commence a series of joint training exercises and intelligence-focused cooperation initiatives alongside the US advisers”, the statement said.

The activities, according to the military, are designed to improve the operational readiness of Nigerian forces and enhance their ability to effectively identify and neutralise extremist groups seeking to destabilise the nation.

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The DHQ reiterated that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain fully committed to degrading and defeating terrorist organisations threatening the country’s sovereignty, national security and the safety of its citizens.

Assuring Nigerians of transparency, the defence authorities pledged to continue providing clear, accurate and timely information regarding ongoing military cooperation efforts between both countries.

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