US military assistance at no cost to Nigeria… sovereignty not compromised – DHQ

The defence headquarters (DHQ) says the military assistance was provided by the United States government to Nigeria at no cost.

Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, Michael Onoja, director of defence media operations, said the support focuses on training Nigerian troops and strengthening ongoing counter-terrorism efforts.

He asked that the collaboration not be viewed as abnormal, comparing the programme to arrangements where Nigerian officers travel abroad for training.

“The American government is interested in combating terrorism, and the assistance rendered to Nigeria comes at no cost,” Onoja said.

He added that Nigeria’s territorial integrity and national security remain intact, with no aspect of the country’s sovereignty compromised.

He assured that the nation’s military leadership, including theatre commanders and chief security officers in affected areas, remain fully engaged and are taking necessary steps to prevent further attacks.

Onoja urged the public to focus on the value the partnership adds to Nigeria’s operations rather than the number of foreign personnel involved.

On February 16, the DHQ confirmed the arrival of about 100 US military personnel and associated equipment at Bauchi airfield.

Samaila Uba, defence director of information, said the deployment followed a recent security agreement between Nigeria and the US.

According to Uba, the federal government had made a formal request to the US for assistance in terms of military training, technical support and intelligence sharing with the members of the Nigerian Armed Forces.(The Cable)