The United States has delivered a fresh batch of military equipment to Nigeria to support its counter-insurgency operations against terrorist groups in the country’s northeast.
The delivery, which arrived at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on Monday, included armored vehicles, surveillance equipment, and tactical gear. U.S. and Nigerian military officials confirmed the handover during a brief ceremony attended by top defense personnel and diplomats.
U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, David Greene, said the support reflects Washington’s commitment to helping Nigeria defeat terrorism and strengthen regional stability.
“This delivery is part of ongoing security cooperation between our two countries. We remain committed to supporting Nigeria in its efforts to combat terrorism and protect civilians,” Greene said.
Nigerian Defense Headquarters welcomed the support, stating it would bolster the military’s capacity to respond to threats from Boko Haram and Islamic State-affiliated militants in the country’s northeast.
“The equipment will be deployed strategically to enhance ongoing operations in affected areas,” Defense spokesperson Brig. Gen. Tukur Gusau said.
Security experts say the U.S. support signals growing international confidence in Nigeria’s counter-terror strategy, but urged more focus on intelligence sharing, training, and human rights compliance during operations.
The U.S. has previously provided Nigeria with aircraft, including the A-29 Super Tucano, to aid its air operations. Nigeria continues to battle insurgency in several regions, with thousands displaced and over 350,000 killed since 2009, according to the UN.
Further deliveries and training programs are expected later this year.
