Nigeria’s security cooperation with the United States continues to play a pivotal role in the country’s efforts to combat terrorism and insurgency, particularly in the northern regions where extremist groups have carried out repeated attacks. The partnership, which includes intelligence sharing, joint training exercises, and coordinated operational planning, has been described by Nigerian security officials as critical for improving the effectiveness of domestic counter-terrorism efforts and strengthening regional stability.
In recent months, U.S. military forces conducted targeted airstrikes against extremist elements operating in areas of Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states, working in close coordination with the Nigerian military to identify and neutralize high-value threats. According to Nigerian authorities, these operations have disrupted the logistics and command networks of insurgent groups, reducing their operational capacity and limiting their ability to launch large-scale attacks on civilian populations and security installations.
Officials from the Nigerian Armed Forces have emphasized that sustained international cooperation is essential for enhancing intelligence-gathering, surveillance capabilities, and tactical response. The exchange of information between U.S. and Nigerian intelligence agencies allows for real-time monitoring of extremist movements, early identification of planned attacks, and the coordination of precision operations designed to minimize civilian casualties.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, in a statement on 8 February 2026, reaffirmed the importance of international partnerships in Nigeria’s security strategy, noting that collaboration with allies such as the United States provides access to advanced technology, expertise in counter-terrorism strategy, and critical logistical support. “Nigeria cannot address the threat of insurgency alone,” Shettima said. “Partnerships with international allies are vital to protecting our citizens and restoring peace to affected communities.”
The U.S. Department of Defense has also acknowledged the ongoing cooperation, highlighting the joint commitment to reducing the impact of extremist groups in the Lake Chad Basin and northern Nigeria. U.S. officials have pointed to the value of combined intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations, which have enabled Nigerian forces to conduct targeted ground operations with greater precision and effectiveness.
Security analysts note that the partnership goes beyond military intervention, encompassing training programs for Nigerian troops, capacity building in counter-terrorism tactics, and support for community engagement initiatives designed to prevent radicalization. The collaboration also seeks to strengthen regional security frameworks, enabling Nigeria and neighbouring countries to respond collectively to cross-border threats and insurgent activity.
