The Nigerian Defence HQ has come out to clarify on “speculations” concerning the presence of US troops in the country.
The clarifications were made via a Press release on Thursday 5 February, 2026, signed by Samaila Uba, Major General, Director, Defence Information.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) clarified, Nigeria has a “long-standing and structured” security partnership with America.
It further clarified, the “cooperation” between Nigeria and the United States (US) is founded on “mutual respect” with the mission to address security frets, encompassing, “terrorism and transnational threats”.
It said, every “engagements” of the American troops in Nigeria will be executed with “full” respect to the sovereignty of Nigeria, as well as, “in accordance with existing bilateral frameworks”.
The Press Release titled ‘clarification on speculations regarding presence of US troops in Nigeria’ reads: “The Defence Headquarters has noted recent media reports and public speculation suggesting the presence or deployment of United States troops in Nigeria.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) wishes to state that Nigeria maintains a long-standing and structured security partnership with the United States. This cooperation is rooted in mutual respect and focuses on capacity building, professional military education, intelligence sharing, logistics support and strategic dialogue
“aimed at addressing shared security concerns, including terrorism and transnational threats. All engagements are conducted in full respect of Nigeria’s sovereignty and in accordance with existing bilateral frameworks.
“As part of this ongoing partnership, a recent two-day high-level Working Group engagement brought together senior U.S. government officials and the Nigerian counterparts at the Office of the National Security Adviser. This meeting followed earlier engagements in the United States reflecting a mature, trust-based relationship focused on practical outcomes.
“Discussions during these engagements included proposals designed to strengthen existing cooperation mechanisms, improve coordination and enhance accountability in joint efforts to counter violent threats while upholding the protection of civilians and community safety. The proposals remain under study by the appropriate Nigerian authorities.
“Engagements with international partners are guided strictly by national interest, measurable outcomes and the protection of Nigeria’s sovereignty.”
