Defence Headquarters Clears Air US Troop Presence

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed widespread speculation about the deployment of United States troops in Nigeria, insisting that the country’s security partnership with the U.S. does not compromise national sovereignty.

In a clarification posted on its official X handle on February 5, 2026, and signed by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) stressed that its collaboration with the United States is strictly within established bilateral frameworks.

Parts of the statement titled ” CLARIFICATION ON SPECULATIONS REGARDING PRESENCE OF US TROOPS IN NIGERIA
” read “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.

“The Defence Headquarters reassures all citizens that Nigeria’s defence partnerships are transparent, policy-driven and aligned with constitutional provisions. The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain fully committed to safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity while working with credible partners in ways that strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture without compromising national independence.”