Nigerian Military Confirms US Drone Operations for Reconnaissance

Nigerian military has revealed that US troops stationed in Nigeria are operating MQ-9 “Reaper” drones for intelligence-gathering missions.

The US personnel are based in Bauchi State and are tasked with training Nigerian forces to fight jihadist militants. While the drones can carry out strikes, Major General Samaila Uba confirmed they are currently being used solely for surveillance.

“US support is designed to enhance Nigeria’s ability to independently detect, track and disrupt terrorist activity,” Uba told AFP. “This partnership has improved intelligence sharing, operational coordination, and the overall effectiveness of Nigerian-led efforts against violent extremist organizations.”

The US troops are not in combat roles, according to both governments. Researchers previously noted months of US drone flights over Nigeria from neighboring Ghana.

Washington formerly operated a major drone base in Niger, which was closed after the junta ordered US forces to leave. However, Africom’s Lt. Gen. John Brennan said: “We’re not in the market to create a drone base anywhere.”

Late last year, the United States carried out approved airstrikes against Islamic State Sahel Province militants in Nigeria’s northwest, as jihadist attacks spread beyond the northeast.

Despite criticism from former US President Donald Trump, Nigeria and the US have increased defence cooperation, focusing on intelligence sharing, arms support, and joint efforts against extremist groups.

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