Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has clarified concerns over the presence of United States troops in the country, stating that the personnel are in Nigeria strictly for training and advisory purposes.
He assured that the Nigerian Armed Forces would remain in full command of all operations carried out within the nation’s territory.
Musa gave the clarification while presiding over the maiden edition of the Monthly Operational Briefing at the Ministry of Defence in Abuja on Wednesday.
The Defence Headquarters had earlier confirmed on February 16, 2026, the arrival of 100 personnel from the United States Armed Forces and associated equipment at Bauchi Airfield.
According to the military, the personnel are technical specialists deployed strictly in an advisory and training capacity and are not combat forces. It also stated that all training activities would be conducted under the authority, direction and control of the Nigerian government in close coordination with the Armed Forces.
During the briefing, Musa highlighted the various threats to national security and urged the Chief of Defence Staff and the service chiefs to intensify efforts and develop practical strategies to eradicate terrorism, insurgency and banditry across the country.
He also commended Nigerian troops for their professionalism, resilience and gallantry in ongoing operations, reaffirming the ministry’s commitment to improving troop welfare and enhancing the operational efficiency of the Armed Forces.
In a statement, the Special Adviser on Media to the minister, Timothy Antigha, said the briefing provided an opportunity for the minister to review ongoing operations and offer strategic guidance to the armed services.
Meanwhile, the Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shaibu, has charged troops of the 401 Special Forces Brigade to remain steadfast and relentless in sustaining pressure on elements responsible for violence and criminal activities.
Shaibu urged the troops to deal decisively with any individual or group threatening peace and stability, regardless of status, influence or affiliation.
He also commended troops of the Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE for their resilience and commitment in restoring security in affected communities across Benue State.
According to him, the operation plays a strategic role within Nigeria’s broader security architecture, noting the need to consolidate recent gains through intelligence-driven operations, stronger inter-agency collaboration and sustained community engagement.
The army chief added that the troops’ persistence in the face of security threats has weakened criminal networks and created a safer environment for socio-economic activities to resume in affected communities.
He further noted that the safe return of internally displaced persons to their communities reflects the operational effectiveness and dedication of the troops.
