DHQ Announces Arrival Of US Military Trainers In Nigeria

By Ayodele Oni

Following Nigeria’s request for military assistance to tackle banditry, about 100 United States, (US) military personnel and associated equipment have arrived at Bauchi Airfield.

Also described as part of ongoing defence cooperation between Nigeria and the United States, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) Abuja, has announced the arrival of the US military personnel.

In a press release issued on Monday, the DHQ stated that the deployment “forms part of the deliberation during a working group engagement by Nigerian delegation and it’s US counterpart.”

The statement was signed by Major General Samaila Uba, Director Defence Information.

According to the statement, the arrival of the US military trainers followed a formal request by the Federal Government of Nigeria to the US government.

The deployment, it said, “is planned and deliberate following a formal request by the Federal Government of Nigeria to the US government to support a clearly defined military training requirement, technical support and intelligence sharing with the members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.”

The DHQ explained that the collaboration is aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture and improving the operational capacity of its troops.

“The collaboration will provide access to specialized technical capabilities aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s ability to deter terrorists threats and enhance the protection of vulnerable communities across the country,” the statement said.

It clarified that the US personnel are not combat troops, but are in the country strictly in an advisory capacity.

“The US personnel are technical specialists serving strictly in an advisory and training capacity. They are not combat forces.

“All training activities will be conducted under the authority, direction and control of the Nigerian Government and in close coordination with the Nigerian Armed Forces,” the DHQ stated.

The statement further disclosed that Nigerian troops would begin joint activities with the US advisers as part of the cooperation framework.

“Nigerian troops, alongside these advisers, will commence a series of joint training engagements and intelligence focused cooperation initiatives.

“These activities are designed to enhance the capacity of Nigerian troops to effectively identify and neutralize extremist terrorist groups seeking to destabilize the nation,” it added.

Reaffirming its commitment to national security, the Armed Forces of Nigeria stressed its resolve to tackle insecurity across the country.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain fully committed to degrading and defeating terrorist organizations that threaten the country’s sovereignty, national security and the safety of its citizens,”

“The DHQ assures Nigerians of continued transparency and the provision of clear, accurate and timely information regarding the military cooperation efforts.”