The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) says 100 United States military personnel and associated equipment have arrived at Bauchi airfield.
In a statement on Monday, Samaila Uba, defence director of information, said the deployment follows the recent security agreement reached between Nigeria and the US.
Uba noted that the federal government had made a formal request to the US for assistance in terms of military training, technical support and intelligence sharing with the members of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
“The collaboration will provide access to specialised technical capabilities aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s ability to deter terrorists’ threats and enhance the protection of vulnerable communities across the country,” the statement reads.
The defence director of information said the US personnel are technical specialists serving strictly in an advisory and training capacity.
He added that they are not combat forces, noting that all training activities will be conducted under the authority, direction and control of the federal government and in close coordination with the Nigerian military.
In the coming days, Uba said Nigerian troops, alongside the US trainers, 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,” he added.
Uba said the military remains fully committed to degrading and defeating terrorist groups that threaten the country’s sovereignty, national security and the safety of its citizens.
He also assured Nigerians of continued transparency and the provision of clear, accurate and timely information regarding the military cooperation efforts.
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