The United States has deployed multiple MQ-9 surveillance drones and approximately 200 military personnel to Nigeria to strengthen ongoing efforts against Islamist militant groups, according to US and Nigerian officials.
The deployment, confirmed in statements to Reuters, is strictly limited to intelligence and surveillance support. US officials emphasized that the troops are not embedded with Nigerian frontline units and are not participating in direct combat operations. Similarly, the MQ-9 drones are being used solely for intelligence-gathering missions and are not authorized to carry out airstrikes.
This development follows the closure of a major US drone base in neighboring Niger Republic in 2024. The facility, valued at about $100 million, previously hosted around 1,000 US troops and played a key role in monitoring militant activities across the Sahel region. Its shutdown came after Niger’s military-led government ordered the withdrawal of American forces.
A US defence official disclosed that the current deployment to Nigeria was carried out at the request of Nigerian authorities, reflecting growing security cooperation between both nations. The official described the threat posed by extremist groups as a “shared security concern,” underscoring the need for coordinated intelligence efforts.
Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters also confirmed the presence of US assets in the country. Major General Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, stated that the drones and personnel are operating from the Bauchi airfield in the North-East, a region heavily affected by insurgency.
According to Uba, the collaboration builds on the recently established US-Nigeria intelligence fusion cell, which is designed to enhance real-time information sharing and improve operational effectiveness on the ground. He noted that the intelligence provided by US partners has been instrumental in supporting Nigerian military commanders.
“Our US partners remain in a strictly non-combat role, enabling operations led by Nigerian authorities,” Uba said.
The partnership highlights an evolving strategy focused on intelligence-driven operations as Nigeria continues to confront persistent security challenges in the region.
