US-Nigeria military ties based on respect and shared goals
The United States Africa Command has emphasized that its military partnership with Nigeria is based on mutual interest and respect for Nigerian sovereignty. Colonel Rebecca Heyse stated that American forces operate in Nigeria only by invitation and under a bilateral framework. Major General Samiala Uba highlighted the significant benefits Nigeria receives from the collaboration, including specialized training and operational lessons. Sunday Dare credited the partnership with boosting Nigeria’s counter-insurgency efforts.
What we know
- Colonel Rebecca Heyse said US operations in Nigeria are by invitation and under the US-Nigeria Joint Working Group framework.
- Major General Samiala Uba stated that Nigeria determines the scope and duration of the military cooperation.
- Hundreds of Nigerian military personnel are undergoing training in the North-east as part of the partnership.
- Sunday Dare noted that the collaboration has improved Nigeria’s counter-insurgency operations.
- In November 2025, President Donald Trump designated Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern,” and on Christmas Day 2025, AFRICOM conducted missile strikes against ISIS militants in Sokoto State, followed by the deployment of US troops to train Nigerian forces.
