By Our Correspondent
National News – The United States has deployed multiple MQ-9 Reaper drones and about 200 military personnel to Nigeria to strengthen intelligence operations and training support for the Nigerian Armed Forces in the ongoing fight against insurgency in the northern region.
The mission, according to security officials, focuses strictly on surveillance and advisory roles, with American troops not directly participating in combat operations.
Officials disclosed that the deployment was made at the request of Nigerian authorities as part of a growing security partnership aimed at combating terrorist threats across the country’s troubled northern territories.
The surveillance drones are designed to help identify insurgent movements, track terrorist activities, and provide actionable intelligence to Nigerian field commanders.
Military sources confirmed that the American personnel are operating from an airfield in Bauchi State, where a joint intelligence coordination effort between Nigerian and U.S. forces has been established.
The collaboration is expected to enhance real-time intelligence sharing and strengthen operational planning against extremist groups.
The MQ-9 Reaper drones are high-altitude, long-endurance unmanned aircraft capable of remaining airborne for more than 27 hours.
While the drones can carry out precision strike missions in some operations globally, officials clarified that those currently deployed in Nigeria are being used strictly for surveillance and reconnaissance purposes.
Security analysts believe the deployment signals a renewed push to strengthen Nigeria’s counterterrorism capacity as insurgent groups continue to stage attacks in parts of the northeast and northwest.
Recent incidents, including suicide bombings targeting communities and military locations, have highlighted the persistent threat posed by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province fighters.
The intelligence support is expected to help Nigerian troops anticipate attacks, improve coordination, and disrupt insurgent networks operating in remote regions.
Authorities say the duration of the American deployment will depend on ongoing security assessments and agreements between both countries.
Defence officials added that the partnership reflects broader international cooperation aimed at addressing terrorism and violent extremism in West Africa, while ensuring Nigerian forces remain in full operational control of all military activities on the ground.
