Nigeria is expected to receive a further boost in foreign military support as the United States moves to increase its troop presence in the country. According to The Wall Street Journal, Washington plans to deploy about 200 additional personnel to assist in ongoing counterterrorism operations.
The reinforcement would add to a small U.S. team already operating in Nigeria under a bilateral security arrangement between both nations. U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) had earlier confirmed the initial deployment, describing it as part of efforts to strengthen collaboration against extremist threats in the region.
Nigerian military authorities say the partnership is focused on training, intelligence exchange, logistics support and strategic coordination rather than direct combat involvement. Officials have repeatedly clarified that American troops will serve in advisory and technical capacities.
While the development has sparked debate among some Nigerians wary of foreign troop deployments, the Defence Headquarters insists that the cooperation fully respects Nigeria’s sovereignty. It added that all defence partnerships are guided by national interest, constitutional provisions and clearly defined objectives.
The expanded deployment comes amid renewed diplomatic engagement between Abuja and Washington as both countries seek stronger collaboration to confront persistent insecurity across Nigeria and the wider West African region.
