The Nigerian military has confirmed that United States military trainers currently deployed in the country are operating advanced surveillance drones to support ongoing counterinsurgency efforts.
According to officials, the US troops—stationed at an air base in Bauchi State—are using high-powered MQ-9 Reaper drones strictly for intelligence gathering and reconnaissance missions, not combat operations.
Speaking to AFP, Major General Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, explained that the partnership is aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s capacity to independently tackle security threats.
“US support is designed to enhance Nigeria’s ability to detect, track, and disrupt terrorist activity,” Uba said.
“This partnership has improved intelligence sharing, operational coordination, and the overall effectiveness of Nigerian-led efforts.”
Growing US-Nigeria Military Cooperation
The deployment is part of a broader security collaboration between Nigeria and the United States, which includes intelligence sharing and arms support. The US has emphasized that its personnel in Nigeria are not engaged in direct combat roles.
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This development follows increased drone activity in West Africa, particularly after the US shut down a major drone base in neighbouring Niger, following the exit order by the country’s military junta.
Despite speculation, officials from United States Africa Command have stated they are not planning to establish a new drone base in the region.
Rising Security Concerns
Nigeria has been battling insurgency since 2009, with groups like the Islamic State West Africa Province and other extremist factions expanding attacks beyond their traditional strongholds in the northeast.
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Recent reports indicate that US-backed operations—including targeted strikes on militant groups—have been conducted with Nigeria’s approval, particularly in the northwest.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has publicly criticized Nigeria’s handling of insecurity, alleging religious persecution—a claim widely disputed by analysts who argue that violence affects multiple communities regardless of faith.
Strategic Alignment Amid Tensions
While Nigeria has pushed back against some US narratives, both countries appear aligned on the need to strengthen security cooperation in the face of growing regional threats.
The use of advanced drone surveillance is expected to play a crucial role in improving intelligence gathering and enhancing the effectiveness of military operations against extremist groups.
