The Nigerian Defense Headquarters (DHQ) has clarified that military assistance from the United States does not undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty, describing the partnership as legitimate and beneficial to ongoing security efforts.

Speaking Friday in Abuja, military authorities explained that the support is advisory and capacity-building in nature, with no financial burden on the Federal Government.

The collaboration focuses on training Nigerian troops and strengthening counter-terrorism operations nationwide.

The clarification comes after the DHQ announced the arrival of about 100 U.S. military personnel and equipment on February 17.

Maj. Gen. Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, said the deployment followed discussions between Nigerian and U.S. officials during a working group meeting.

At a press briefing, Maj. Gen. Micheal Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, described the partnership as routine military-to-military engagement.

He explained that such cooperation is common among nations facing security challenges and is designed to enhance Nigeria’s operational capacity.

Onoja said, “We must appreciate the assistance the United States government is providing to the Nigerian military to ensure insecurity comes to an end. The purpose of that assistance is to make sure Nigeria has an environment conducive for all citizens to live in peace, free from terrorist threats.”

He added that U.S. policy is to pursue terrorists globally to protect its national interests, and its support to Nigeria should not be considered abnormal.