 has reaffirmed that counterterrorism assistance from the United States is provided to Nigeria){kind=link}
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has reaffirmed that counterterrorism assistance from the United States is provided to Nigeria at no financial cost and does not threaten the nation’s sovereignty.
Speaking during the monthly operational briefing in Abuja, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, addressed public concerns about the presence of US personnel in the country. He clarified that the American team is in Nigeria solely to provide training support to the Armed Forces.
According to him, the partnership involves no financial obligations on Nigeria’s part. He emphasized that the US government’s involvement is part of its broader commitment to combating terrorism globally and supporting partner nations.
Major General Onoja firmly dismissed suggestions that the collaboration could compromise Nigeria’s territorial integrity. He assured that the country’s sovereignty remains fully protected and that no aspect of national authority has been relinquished.
He noted that Nigeria regularly participates in international military training engagements, describing the current US cooperation as a standard professional exchange aimed at strengthening operational capacity. The training, he added, is already enhancing ongoing efforts in regions experiencing heightened terrorist threats.
The Defence spokesperson also addressed concerns about renewed terrorist attacks, stating that intensified military pressure has significantly weakened insurgent groups. He explained that recent attacks on soft targets reflect attempts by terrorists to create panic and attract media attention rather than evidence of a resurgence.
He urged journalists to report security developments responsibly, warning that excessive publicity can amplify the impact terrorists seek to achieve. While not discouraging coverage, he called for moderation to prevent the spread of fear.
Highlighting broader security efforts, Onoja said the military has established strong structures to tackle terrorism and kidnapping, including the National Counter Terrorism Centre and special operations deployments along key routes such as the Kaduna–Abuja corridor.
He appealed to citizens to cooperate with security agencies by providing timely and actionable intelligence, stressing that community support is crucial in addressing insecurity.
The DHQ reiterated its commitment to federal government policies and maintaining Nigeria’s territorial integrity while strengthening operational effectiveness through strategic international partnerships.