The United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) has reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside Nigeria in the fight against terrorism, highlighting ongoing cooperation with the Armed Forces of Nigeria to combat extremist threats in the country’s northeast.
In a statement posted on X on Sunday, AFRICOM underscored the importance of the bilateral security partnership.
“Committed to protecting our people and our interests. In coordination with the Armed Forces of Nigeria, operations in Northeastern Nigeria underscore the value of our partnership. Make no mistake, our two nations will relentlessly pursue and neutralise terrorist threats.”
The statement comes amid intensified U.S.-Nigeria counterterrorism cooperation targeting Islamic State-linked militants and other armed extremist groups operating across northeastern Nigeria and the wider Lake Chad region.
Speaking previously on joint operations with Nigerian forces, Major General Dagvin Anderson, then commander of U.S. Special Operations Command Africa, said the partnership had demonstrated the capabilities both countries could bring to counterterrorism efforts.
“The operation built a lot of credibility in what the United States can bring,” Anderson said. “Those unique capabilities can be brought to bear in conjunction with our partners. The Nigerians have been instrumental throughout the last several months in developing the target, assisting with intelligence and providing support.”
In May 2026, AFRICOM and Nigerian authorities conducted coordinated strikes against Islamic State-affiliated fighters in northeastern Nigeria. U.S. military officials said intelligence assessments confirmed the targets, while no casualties were reported among U.S. or Nigerian personnel involved in the operation.
AFRICOM has consistently described Nigeria as a critical security partner in West Africa and maintains that sustained cooperation is essential to disrupting terrorist networks and promoting regional stability.
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