By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has reassured Nigerians that the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity remain fully protected amid recent media reports and public speculation over the alleged presence of United States troops in the country.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, said Nigeria maintains a long-standing and structured security partnership with the United States, stressing that all engagements are conducted with full respect for Nigeria’s independence and constitutional provisions.
According to the DHQ, the partnership is focused on capacity building, professional military education, intelligence sharing, logistics support and strategic dialogue aimed at addressing shared security challenges such as terrorism and other transnational threats.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria wishes to state clearly that all engagements with international partners are guided strictly by Nigeria’s national interest, measurable outcomes and the protection of the nation’s sovereignty,” the statement read.
The DHQ explained that as part of ongoing bilateral cooperation, a recent two-day high-level Working Group meeting was held between senior U.S. government officials and Nigerian counterparts at the Office of the National Security Adviser. The engagement followed earlier meetings in the United States and reflected what the military described as a mature and trust-based relationship.
Discussions during the meetings, the DHQ noted, centred on proposals to strengthen existing cooperation mechanisms, improve coordination and enhance accountability in joint efforts to counter violent threats, while ensuring the protection of civilians and community safety.
Major General Uba emphasized that the proposals arising from the engagements are still under review by appropriate Nigerian authorities and do not in any way undermine Nigeria’s control over its security architecture.
He further assured citizens that Nigeria’s defence partnerships remain transparent, policy-driven and firmly aligned with national laws.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain fully committed to safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity while working with credible partners in ways that strengthen national security without compromising independence,” the statement added.
