Posted by Samuel on Tue 17th Feb, 2026 - tori.ng
The Minister confirmed that the presence of American soldiers in Nigeria was approved by the federal government, and they are in the country solely for training and technological support.
The Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has confirmed the presence of American military forces in Nigeria.
The Minister confirmed that the presence of American soldiers in Nigeria was approved by the federal government, and they are in the country solely for training and technological support.
Musa, who spoke with The Nation at the Ministry of Defence, added that, particularly, the American soldiers have permission to work with their Nigerian counterparts in parts of Bauchi State in the task of combating terrorism and banditry.
He affirmed the readiness of the federal government to work with other friendly nations in ensuring the war against terrorists is won.
The Defence Minister pointed out that the collaboration with the United States is not strange or out of place, as Nigeria also does the same for other countries like Liberia, Tanzania and other nations.
General Musa explained that Nigeria would benefit from the technology, drones and satellites from the United States in the ongoing war against criminals.
“Yes, some of them came. We’re working together. I don’t know about Borno, but I know they have permission to come into some certain areas in Bauchi to help us in training because of the fight we’re doing.
“They’re going to help with technology. The U.S. has very good technology. They have drones. They have the satellite, which is very critical for us.
“Collaboration is something every country does. We’re in Liberia to do that. We’re in Sierra Leone to do for other countries. We’re in Tanzania. We’re in Burma. We did for other countries.
“So now we need the help because the terrorists are everywhere, especially since the Sahel is broken. The whole thing started when Libya fell.
“Too many arms, too many criminals and then got into us. So, that’s what we’re facing. That’s why we need all the good support of friendly nations to confront it,” he stated.
The Minister assured that Nigeria’s sovereignty is not threatened by the activity, noting that the presence of American soldiers in the country is based on a clear agreement and it’s on a short-term.
“Whatever we’re doing is based on agreement. They respect our sovereignty. They understand that. We have told them in clear terms. Whatever we’re doing is going to be for a short time. Once we finish the objective, we have to move,” he added.