US troops land in Nigeria after airstrikes on Islamists

Nigeria announced on Feb. 16 that the U.S. has deployed roughly 100 military personnel to the country, focusing on training and advising local forces against Islamist militants like Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) affiliates. These troops arrived at Bauchi Airfield in the northeast, providing technical support, intelligence sharing, and equipment, but they will not take part in combat operations.

This move comes after the  U.S. airstrikes on Dec. 25, 2025, targeting ISIS-linked camps in Sokoto State, which President Donald Trump described as a symbolic “Christmas present” to insurgents. Tensions had risen earlier when Trump accused Nigeria of failing to protect Christians from violence, threatening further action before cooperation deepened at Nigeria’s request.

Nigeria faces ongoing threats from Boko Haram, ISWAP, Lakurawa, and bandit groups involved in kidnappings and illegal mining, displacing hundreds of thousands. Up to 200 more U.S. troops may join soon to supplement existing small teams already advising Nigerian units.

Nigerian Defense Headquarters spokesperson Major General Samaila Uba mentioned that the Americans operate under Nigerian command, enhancing counterterrorism without direct fighting. U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) aims to disrupt extremists and protect civilians through partnered efforts. 

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