Nigeria Confirms Withdrawal of US Troops Deployed for Counterterrorism
Nigeria confirms the planned withdrawal of about 200 US troops deployed in February to assist with its security crisis, citing strong bilateral ties.
The Nigerian government has confirmed that approximately 200 American troops deployed earlier this year to assist with the country's security challenges will be withdrawn. The announcement came on Tuesday, marking a shift in the operational phase of the bilateral counterterrorism partnership.
The US personnel were deployed in February amid heightened tensions between the two nations over accusations of Christian genocide. During their time in the country, the troops provided training and intelligence support, and participated in a joint operation that resulted in the death of a senior Islamic State commander.
Military spokesperson Samaila Uba emphasized that the relationship between Nigeria and the United States remains strong and mutually beneficial. He clarified that the deployment was tied to specific operational and counterterrorism objectives, and that the withdrawal is part of the planned engagement. Certain aspects of the security partnership will continue.
Nigeria is currently grappling with a severe security crisis, with jihadist and other criminal groups conducting frequent attacks across the nation. The situation has worsened since President Bola Tinubu assumed office, with violence spreading southward.
Analysts note that despite the troop deployment and claims made by US President Donald Trump regarding the crisis, conditions on the ground have seen little improvement. Last week, scores of people were abducted in the country's central region, underscoring the persistent threat.