The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed the arrival of about 100 United States military personnel and associated equipment at Bauchi Airfield.
Director Defence Information, Maj-Gen. Samaila Uba in a statement issued Monday said the deployment forms part of the deliberation during a working group engagement by Nigerian delegation and its US counterpart.
He added that the arrival is planned and deliberate following a formal request by the federal government of Nigeria to the US government to support a clearly defined military training requirement, technical support and intelligence sharing with the members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
Uba noted: “The collaboration will provide access to specialized technical capabilities aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s ability to deter terrorists threats and enhance the protection of vulnerable communities across the country.
“The US personnel are technical specialists serving strictly in an advisory and training capacity. They are not combat forces.
“All training activities will be conducted under the authority, direction and control of the Nigerian Government and in close coordination with the Nigerian Armed Forces.
“Nigerian troops, alongside these advisers, will commence a series of joint training engagements and intelligence focused cooperation initiatives. “These activities are designed to enhance the capacity of Nigerian troops to effectively identify and neutralize extremist terrorist groups seeking to destabilize the nation.”
Uba assured that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remained fully committed to degrading and defeating terrorist organisations that threaten the country’s sovereignty, national security and the safety of its citizens.