The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has reaffirmed that Nigeria’s ongoing military collaboration with the United States is strictly for training and operational support, insisting that the country’s sovereignty remains fully intact.
In a statement addressing public concerns, the DHQ explained that the partnership is primarily designed to strengthen the capacity of Nigerian troops through specialized training programmes, intelligence sharing, and technical support. The military high command noted that the cooperation plays a critical role in enhancing counter-terrorism operations and improving overall security effectiveness across the country.
According to defence officials, such bilateral military engagements are common among sovereign nations seeking to modernize their armed forces and improve strategic capabilities. They stressed that Nigerian authorities retain full command and control over all military operations conducted within national territory.
The DHQ further clarified that no foreign military exercises independent authority in Nigeria, adding that the collaboration aligns strictly with the country’s national security objectives. The support, they said, includes tactical training, logistics assistance, and expertise aimed at addressing threats such as insurgency, banditry, and other forms of violent extremism.
The clarification comes amid growing public discourse surrounding foreign military involvement in domestic security matters. However, defence authorities maintained that the arrangement is lawful, transparent, and structured to reinforce Nigeria’s fight against terrorism without compromising its independence.
The military reiterated that safeguarding national sovereignty remains paramount, while strategic international partnerships continue to serve as tools for strengthening Nigeria’s defence architecture.
