US reduces military presence in Nigeria while maintaining intelligence cooperation

Friday 03 July 2026 - 13:33

By: Sahili Aya

US reduces military presence in Nigeria while maintaining intelligence cooperation

The United States has scaled back its military presence in Nigeria following the completion of a major counterterrorism operation, while reaffirming its commitment to intelligence cooperation with Nigerian security forces.

The announcement signals a shift from direct operational involvement to continued strategic support as both countries seek to contain jihadist threats in the Lake Chad region.

Troop Withdrawal Follows Counterterrorism Mission

Speaking during a press briefing from Luanda, Angola, General Dagvin Anderson, commander of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), confirmed that most of the approximately 200 American personnel deployed specifically for the recent operation have now left Nigeria.

According to Anderson, the withdrawal concerns troops assigned exclusively to that mission, while broader security cooperation between Washington and Abuja remains unchanged.

Intelligence Partnership Continues

Despite the reduction in military personnel, the United States will continue providing intelligence sharing and operational support at Nigeria's request.

AFRICOM said the partnership remains focused on helping Nigerian forces plan and execute complex counterterrorism missions, reflecting Washington's strategy of supporting regional partners through intelligence, training and technical assistance rather than maintaining a large on-the-ground presence.

Joint Operation Targeted Islamic State Fighters

The deployment followed a joint operation carried out in May by U.S. and Nigerian forces in the Lake Chad basin, a region that has long served as a stronghold for jihadist groups.

The coordinated airstrikes reportedly eliminated nearly 200 militants affiliated with the Islamic State, including one of the organization's most senior global leaders.

The operation represented one of the most significant recent successes in the campaign against extremist groups operating across northeastern Nigeria and neighboring countries.

Long-Term Security Cooperation Remains In Place

Although the number of American troops has been reduced, U.S. officials emphasized that security cooperation with Nigeria will continue through intelligence exchange and other forms of military assistance.

The move reflects a broader U.S. approach in Africa that prioritizes strengthening the capabilities of local security forces while limiting the long-term deployment of American personnel.