US Troop Deployment Respects Nigeria’s Sovereignty, Says DHQ

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has said the United States (US) troops’ engagement is being conducted in full respect of Nigeria’s sovereignty and in accordance with existing bilateral frameworks.

This comes after viral media reports suggesting the deployment of American troops in Nigeria.

A statement by the director Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, on behalf of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), said  Nigeria maintains a long-standing and structured security partnership with the United States.

He said this cooperation is rooted in mutual respect and focuses on capacity building, professional military education, intelligence sharing, logistics support and strategic dialogue aimed at addressing shared security concerns, including terrorism and transnational threats.

“All engagements are conducted in full respect of Nigeria’s sovereignty and in accordance with existing bilateral frameworks,” he said.

He explained that as part of this ongoing partnership, a recent two-day high-level Working Group engagement brought together senior U.S. government officials and the Nigerian counterparts at the Office of the National Security Adviser.

This meeting followed earlier engagements in the United States, reflecting a mature, trust-based relationship focused on practical outcomes.

Major General Uba said discussions during these engagements included proposals designed to strengthen existing cooperation mechanisms, improve coordination and enhance accountability in joint efforts to counter violent threats while upholding the protection of civilians and community safety.

“The proposals remain under study by the appropriate Nigerian authorities,” he said.

He reiterated that engagements with international partners are guided strictly by national interest, measurable outcomes and the protection of Nigeria’s sovereignty.

The Defence Headquarters , therefore, reassured citizens that Nigeria’s defence partnerships are transparent, policy-driven, and aligned with constitutional provisions.

The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain fully committed to safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity while working with credible partners to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture without compromising national independence.