Three United States military aircraft carrying troops and equipment arrived in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, between Thursday and Sunday, signalling the commencement of a bilateral security deployment centred on support functions.
Officials at Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters confirmed to Anadolu that approximately 100 US troops have been deployed in an initial phase, with further flights expected in the coming weeks.
Speaking on Monday on condition of anonymity, a senior official reiterated that the American personnel would focus on non-combat roles, operating mainly from command Centres to bolster Nigeria’s ongoing efforts.
Earlier comments reported by Anadolu quoted Maj. Gen. Samaila Uba, spokesperson for the Defence Headquarters, as clarifying that US troops would not engage in combat or assume direct operational responsibilities.
The deployment follows renewed criticism from US President Donald Trump regarding Nigeria’s response to attacks on Christian communities. Although Christian populations have faced deadly assaults, Muslim civilians and others have also been killed amid the persistent violence.
In parallel, Nigerian authorities have intensified domestic security operations, announcing the deployment of special forces to Plateau and Taraba states, both of which have witnessed recurring unrest. While Nigerian officials have not disclosed the duration of the US presence, American authorities have indicated that the mission is temporary.