(DDM) – Details of Nigeria’s military cooperation with the United States have surfaced amid growing scrutiny over security operations in the country.
The revelations follow heightened collaboration after former US President Donald Trump re-designated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) in October 2025.
The CPC designation cited allegations of Christian persecution across Nigeria, claims that the federal government has consistently denied.
Following the designation, Trump reportedly threatened to deploy US troops “guns-a-blazing” to target terrorists accused of attacking Christian communities.
In response, President Bola Tinubu dispatched a high-level delegation to engage with the Trump administration on security measures and operational coordination.
Sources say the discussions led to agreements on intelligence sharing, joint training exercises, and limited US military interventions to support Nigerian forces.
The arrangement has reportedly allowed US military personnel to operate in selected regions of Nigeria to monitor and counter extremist threats.
Officials emphasize that the collaboration aims to enhance Nigeria’s capacity to protect vulnerable communities, while avoiding unilateral foreign military action.
Critics, however, question the transparency of the agreement and warn that foreign troop involvement may complicate domestic security dynamics.
Human rights groups have expressed concern over potential violations of Nigerian sovereignty and the risk of civilian harm in contested areas.
The military partnership comes amid rising attacks by armed groups in parts of Northern and Middle-Belt Nigeria, which have caused significant displacement and fatalities.
Government sources maintain that all US operations are conducted in coordination with Nigerian authorities and under strict operational protocols.
The move underscores Nigeria’s increasing reliance on international partnerships to strengthen counterterrorism and internal security measures.
Observers note that the CPC designation remains politically sensitive, as it ties Nigeria’s international image to domestic religious tensions.
President Tinubu has repeatedly denied systemic religious persecution, emphasizing efforts to protect all citizens regardless of faith.
Meanwhile, local communities continue to monitor military movements closely, expressing both relief at added security support and concern over potential escalation.
The emergence of these details sheds light on behind-the-scenes diplomacy and military planning between Nigeria and the United States.
Security analysts suggest that the agreement reflects a broader trend of international collaboration in addressing regional terrorism challenges.
As operations unfold, the Nigerian government is expected to provide periodic updates to reassure citizens and maintain public confidence.
The implications of US military presence in Nigeria will likely continue to generate debate across political, religious, and civil society circles.
