The United States has stepped up military cooperation with Nigeria, conducting specialised training for Nigerian troops in unmanned aircraft systems, combat casualty care and other operational skills in Bauchi State.
The training is being held at a U.S. military Operating Location in Bauchi as part of broader security cooperation aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s military capabilities, operational readiness and long-term capacity.
The United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), in a report on Monday, said the programme covers Combat Lifesaver and Tactical Combat Casualty Care, weapons familiarisation, camouflage, water treatment and testing, explosive ordnance disposal and small-unit tactics.
Training in unmanned aircraft systems has also emerged as a key component, with U.S. personnel providing practical instruction to members of the Nigerian Air Force Special Forces Regiment.
AFRICOM said about 10 Nigerian personnel participated in the UAS training, which combined classroom instruction with hands-on exercises. The sessions focused on operating the aircraft, deploying the systems and using intelligence gathered through them to support military operations.
The training programme was developed around areas identified by Nigerian counterparts as most relevant to their operational needs, with U.S. personnel providing expertise across the selected fields.
Beyond technical skills, AFRICOM said the engagement is designed to strengthen cooperation and interoperability between the two militaries, including closer working relationships among personnel at the operational level.
The two sides are also exploring additional training opportunities at the Bauchi location as they identify areas for further exchange of expertise and capability development.
The latest engagement comes weeks after AFRICOM disclosed that the United States had withdrawn most of its personnel deployed to Nigeria for a specific counterterrorism operation, while maintaining intelligence-sharing and broader security cooperation with Abuja.
