US Deploys Advance Team to Nigeria as Counter-Terror Cooperation Enters New Phase

Story: written by Springnewsng February 16 2026
The first batch of United States troops has arrived in northeastern Nigeria, marking a fresh chapter in the country’s fight against terrorism and insurgency.
About 100 personnel from the United States military touched down in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, on Thursday night, according to reports. The deployment forms the opening phase of a planned 200-member mission designed to support Nigeria’s security forces through intelligence sharing, training and strategic advice.
By Friday evening, multiple aircraft were sighted at the base, with equipment already being offloaded. Officials confirmed that more personnel and logistics are expected to arrive in stages over the coming days and weeks.
A senior official from the United States Department of Defense, speaking anonymously to the The New York Times, described the arrivals as the “advance force” of a wider operation that will rely heavily on C-17 transport aircraft operating across key locations in Nigeria.
Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, emphasised that the American personnel will not be involved in direct combat. He stated that Nigerian forces will retain full operational control and lead all missions within the country’s borders.
In a similar vein, defence spokesman Samaila Ubah explained that the deployment followed recommendations from a joint U.S.–Nigeria working group and is focused on advisory and technical assistance rather than frontline engagement.
Security analysts say the mission will cover some of Nigeria’s most volatile areas, including northern states affected by Boko Haram, as well as parts of the Middle Belt, where repeated attacks have impacted both Christian and Muslim communities.
The deployment comes amid sustained diplomatic pressure from Donald Trump, who has criticised Nigeria’s handling of security challenges. While attacks on Christian communities have drawn global attention, officials note that Muslim populations have also suffered significant violence.
Reports indicate the new arrivals will strengthen a smaller group of U.S. advisers already in the country, who have been supporting Nigerian forces with tactical training, planning and rescue coordination. Both governments insist the partnership is aimed at boosting Nigeria’s counter-terror capacity while fully respecting national sovereignty.