Defence spokesperson insists collaboration is at Nigeria’s request as over 100 officers receive training in North-East

The United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) has restated that all American military activities in Nigeria are carried out strictly on the invitation of the Nigerian government and within a mutually agreed framework. This assurance was given during an X Space discussion on Tuesday, with both US and Nigerian officials addressing concerns about foreign troops operating in the country.

Speaking during the session titled “Strengthening Security Through Strategic Information Sharing: United States and Nigerian Military Partnership Against Terrorism,” AFRICOM Director of Public Affairs, Colonel Rebecca Heyse, emphasised that the United States respects Nigeria’s sovereignty and only operates within boundaries set by bilateral agreements. According to her, “Our operations and cooperation with Nigeria are rooted in fundamental respect for Nigerian sovereignty. We operate strictly by invitation and under the US-Nigeria Joint Working Group framework.”

Heyse added that the partnership between both countries would continue as long as shared security threats exist and both sides find value in the arrangement. She said, “As long as there are shared security threats and the framework continues to be of value to both countries, the United States remains committed to the partnership.”

Defence Headquarters spokesperson, Major General Samiala Uba, reinforced this position from Abuja, noting that it is Nigeria that determines the scope and duration of any cooperation. Uba explained, “The cooperation is at the instance of Nigeria. The competencies, specialised capabilities and expertise the United States brings are things we require, and as long as we require them, we will continue to work together under the Joint Working Group framework.”

Uba revealed that hundreds of Nigerian military personnel are currently undergoing specialised training in the North-East under this partnership. He described these benefits as significant for national defence capacity building. “The Armed Forces of Nigeria are benefiting immensely from this collaboration, including skills development and specialised training. There are many operational lessons we continue to learn through our interaction with the United States,” Uba stated.

The renewed assurances come amid public debate regarding foreign military presence in Nigeria’s fight against insurgency and terrorism across several regions including Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states in the North-East geopolitical zone. Both AFRICOM and Defence Headquarters stressed that no foreign troops operate independently on Nigerian soil without government approval.

Officials say ongoing joint operations have helped improve intelligence sharing, operational planning, and tactical skills among Nigerian forces tackling Boko Haram and other armed groups. The Defence Headquarters maintained that collaboration will continue so long as it remains beneficial to national security objectives.

Source: https://punchng.com/us-military-presence-in-nigeria-based-on-invitation-africom/