DHQ Debunks Claims of U.S. Troops in Nigeria

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed recent media reports and public speculation suggesting that United States troops have been deployed or are operating in Nigeria, describing such claims as misleading.

In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) clarified that Nigeria maintains a long-standing and well-structured security partnership with the United States, anchored on mutual respect and clearly defined bilateral frameworks.

According to the DHQ, the partnership focuses on capacity building, professional military education, intelligence sharing, logistics support and strategic dialogue aimed at addressing shared security challenges, including terrorism and other transnational threats.

The statement also stressed that all engagements are conducted with full respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty and in line with existing agreements.

The statement further disclosed that, as part of the ongoing cooperation, a recent two-day high-level Working Group meeting was held at the Office of the National Security Adviser, bringing together senior U.S. government officials and their Nigerian counterparts. The engagement followed earlier meetings in the United States and reflects a mature, trust-based relationship focused on practical and measurable outcomes.

Discussions during the meeting included proposals to strengthen existing cooperation mechanisms, improve coordination and enhance accountability in joint efforts to counter violent threats, while ensuring the protection of civilians and community safety. The DHQ noted that these proposals are currently under review by relevant Nigerian authorities.

Reaffirming Nigeria’s position, the Defence Headquarters emphasized that all engagements with international partners are guided strictly by national interest, respect for sovereignty and measurable security outcomes.

The DHQ reassured Nigerians that the country’s defence partnerships remain transparent, policy-driven and consistent with constitutional provisions, adding that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain fully committed to safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity while working with credible partners to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture without compromising national independence.