The Defence Headquarters has moved to allay public concerns over the presence of United States military personnel in Nigeria, describing the development as a routine security partnership aimed at strengthening counter-terrorism operations.
Speaking in Abuja, Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Michael Onoja, said the engagement is focused on training and capacity building for Nigerian troops, adding that the collaboration comes at no cost to the country and does not in any way undermine Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
Onoja explained that the deployment of about 100 U.S. military personnel followed bilateral engagements between defence officials of both countries. He stressed that the arrangement is strictly professional and comparable to training programmes Nigerian officers regularly attend abroad.
“Our sovereignty is intact. Our territorial integrity is intact. This is simply a training programme designed to improve operational effectiveness,he said.
According to him, the cooperation over the past two months has already begun yielding measurable results in ongoing counter-terrorism efforts, with further gains anticipated in the coming weeks. He assured that theatre commanders and security chiefs across affected regions remain fully in control of the security situation.
The defence spokesman also urged the media to exercise responsibility in reporting security developments, warning that excessive publicity of terrorist activities could inadvertently advance the objectives of insurgent groups by spreading fear and panic.
On the Federal Government’s de-radicalisation and rehabilitation initiative, Operation Safe Corridor, Onoja acknowledged growing public concerns and confirmed that the programme is currently under review. He noted that the initiative, established in collaboration with the Borno State Government and relevant federal ministries, recorded significant progress at its inception but has encountered challenges over time.
He maintained that while insurgents must be held accountable under the law, rehabilitation remains a critical component of Nigeria’s broader counter-insurgency strategy. He assured that the review process would lead to updated operational guidelines.
Addressing state-level peace initiatives, Onoja said governors have the authority to adopt security measures within their states, but such actions must align with federal directives and receive necessary clearance from the Office of the National Security Adviser.
He reaffirmed that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain committed to implementing federal government policies and will continue to support lawful strategies aimed at restoring stability and lasting peace across the country.
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