The Nigerian military has explained the reason behind the withdrawal of United States troops from Nigeria. Director of Defence Information, Major-General Samaila Uba stated that the deployment of 200 United States soldiers to Nigeria was tied to operational and counterterrorism operations.
Uba explained that the decision to draw down the personnel is part of the evolving nature of the engagement.
According to him, elements of the United States security partnership, especially intelligence cooperation, training and information sharing, will continue.
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Recall that in early 2026, the United States deployed 200 troops to Nigeria for a limited counterterrorism mission, and the planned withdrawal will see the main body leave by late September, while a smaller advisory and intelligence team will remain behind.
Reacting to the development, Uba said the Nigerian military has been consistent in maintaining responsibility for the defence of Nigeria, stressing that the protection of Nigerian citizens rests primarily with the country’s security forces.
He pointed out that the cooperation between the Nigerian Armed Forces and the United States is aimed at boosting their capabilities through intelligence sharing, training and other areas.
The defence spokesman further asserted that the Nigeria-United States partnership has resulted in a robust fight against terrorism and other transnational security threats.
“The decision to withdraw the 200 troops from Nigeria is part of the evolving nature of that engagement,” he said.
COURTESY: dailypost.ng
