A small contingent of US military personnel has arrived in Nigeria, marking the first official American military presence on the ground since airstrikes were carried out on Christmas Day 2025. These strikes, ordered by President Donald Trump, were aimed at what the US government described as “Islamic State targets” operating in the region.
The airstrikes were part of a broader strategy to address growing terrorist threats in West Africa, with further military actions from the United States also suggested by President Trump. The deployment of US forces follows a broader agreement between the Federal Government of Nigeria and Washington, aimed at increasing cooperation in the fight against terrorism in the region.
General Dagvin R.M. Anderson, head of the US Africa Command, confirmed the development during a press briefing on Tuesday. “That has led to increased collaboration between our nations to include a small US team that brings some unique capabilities from the United States,” he said, without specifying the exact size or role of the team. However, it is understood that the US personnel will be supporting Nigeria’s counterterrorism operations, particularly in intelligence gathering and enhancing local military capabilities.
Reuters reported that the US had been conducting surveillance flights over Nigeria from neighbouring Ghana since at least November 2025. These flights were designed to provide intelligence support ahead of the December 2025 strikes, as part of a larger strategic effort to track and target terrorist groups in the region.
Nigeria’s Defence Minister, Christopher Musa, confirmed the arrival of the US team but refrained from offering further details on the matter. He echoed sentiments that the collaboration would strengthen the nation’s efforts to combat terror groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), which have been wreaking havoc across the country.
The increased US military presence comes amidst growing pressure from Washington regarding Nigeria’s handling of terrorist activities. One of the most contentious issues has been accusations from President Trump that the Nigerian government has failed to adequately protect Christians, particularly in the northwest, where religiously motivated attacks have occurred. The Federal Government of Nigeria has firmly rejected these claims, maintaining that its military operations are focused on neutralizing all armed groups responsible for attacking civilians, regardless of their religious affiliations.
Despite the Federal Government’s assertions, the US continues to emphasize the need for stronger action to protect vulnerable populations, especially in areas under siege by Boko Haram and ISWAP. These groups have been responsible for thousands of deaths and the displacement of millions in the region.
