Defence Minister confirms US troops are in Nigeria for training, not combat
Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has confirmed that American soldiers are currently in the country — but only to support training and provide technology for security operations.
Speaking at the Ministry of Defence, Musa explained that the Federal Government approved their presence and that their role is limited to working with Nigerian troops in selected areas, especially in Bauchi State, to tackle terrorism and banditry.
According to him, the partnership is focused on skills and equipment, not fighting on the battlefield.
“They are here to help us with training and technology like drones and satellite support,” he said, noting that such tools are important in tracking and confronting criminal groups.
Musa added that Nigeria also provides similar support to other countries and that international cooperation is normal in the fight against insecurity. He stressed that the current security problems are linked to the spread of weapons and criminal networks across the Sahel region.
He assured Nigerians that the country’s sovereignty is not under threat, saying the agreement with the United States is clear and temporary.
“This is short-term support. Once the objective is achieved, they will leave,” he said.
The minister maintained that Nigeria remains open to working with friendly nations to strengthen its fight against terrorism and restore peace.