The Nigerian military confirmed on Saturday that US military trainers deployed to Nigeria are operating high-powered drones for surveillance and intelligence gathering. The drones are being launched from an air base in Bauchi State.
While capable of carrying out strikes, a military official stated that the drones are currently being used solely to detect, track, and disrupt terrorist activity.
Around 100 US troops arrived in Nigeria last month to provide training to local soldiers in combating Islamic militants and other armed groups. Both the Nigerian and US governments have confirmed that the American forces are not participating in combat operations.
Nigeria continues to grapple with numerous militant groups, including Boko Haram and affiliates of the so-called Islamic State. Other armed groups are involved in kidnapping for ransom and illegal mining.
Last year, the US carried out strikes targeting jihadist groups in Nigeria’s northwest. President Donald Trump has criticized the Nigerian government for failing to curb violence, alleging that Christians are being persecuted, though analysts note that attacks affect individuals of all faiths.
Previously, Washington operated a major drone base in neighbouring Niger, which has since closed after the ruling junta ordered US forces to leave the country.
The deployment underscores ongoing US-Nigeria security cooperation amid escalating threats from militant groups in the region.
