Defence Minister Gen. Christopher Musa (rtd) yesterday explained that the presence of United States (U.S.) military forces in Nigeria is for training and technological support.
He spoke during an exclusive interview with The Nation at the Ministry of Defence , popularly known as the Ship House in Abuja.
According to the minister, both militaries were working together in certain areas in Bauchi State, adding that the Federal Government permitted their presence for that purpose.
“Yes, some of them came. We’re working together. I don’t know about Borno, but I know they have permission to come into some certain areas in Bauchi to help us in training because of the fight we’re doing.
“They’re going to help with technology. The U.S. has very good technology. They have drones. They have the satellite, which is very critical for us.
“Collaboration is something every country does. We’re in Liberia to do that. We’re in Sierra Leone to do for other countries. We’re in Tanzania. We’re in Burma. We did for other countries.
“So now we need the help because the terrorists are everywhere, especially since the Sahel is broken. The whole thing started when Libya fell.
“Too many arms, too many criminals and then got into us. So, that’s what we’re facing. That’s why we need all the good support of friendly nations to confront it,” he stated.
The minister assured Nigerians that the partnership was for a short term, stressing that there was an agreement guiding it.
“Whatever we’re doing is based on agreement. They respect our sovereignty. They understand that. We have told them in clear terms. Whatever we’re doing is going to be for a short time. Once we finish the objective, we have to move,” he added.
Also yesterday, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) also announced the arrival of about 100 U.S. military personnel and associated equipment at Bauchi Airfield.
The statement noted that the deployment was part of the deliberation during a working group engagement between Nigerian delegation and it’s U.S. counterpart.
A statement by Director of Defence Information (DDI), Maj. Gen. Samaila Uba, said the arrival was planned and deliberate following a formal request by the Federal Government of Nigeria to the US government to support a clearly defined military training requirement, technical support and intelligence sharing with the members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
“The collaboration will provide access to specialized technical capabilities aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s ability to deter terrorists threats and enhance the protection of vulnerable communities across the country.
“The U.S. personnel are technical specialists serving strictly in an advisory and training capacity. They are not combat forces. All training activities will be conducted under the authority, direction and control of the Nigerian Government and in close coordination with the Nigerian Armed Forces.
“Nigerian troops, alongside these advisers, will commence a series of joint training engagements and intelligence focused cooperation initiatives. These activities are designed to enhance the capacity of Nigerian troops to effectively identify and neutralize extremist terrorist groups seeking to destabilise the nation.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain fully committed to degrading and defeating terrorist organizations that threaten the country’s sovereignty, national security and the safety of its citizens.
“The DHQ assures Nigerians of continued transparency and the provision of clear, accurate and timely information regarding the military cooperation efforts,” Maj. Gen Uba said.
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