Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts received a significant boost as the United States supplied critical military assets to support ongoing operations against terrorists and other non-state actors.
The delivery, confirmed by US Africa Command (AFRICOM) on X, underscores the security partnership between the two countries.
“U.S. forces delivered critical military supplies to our Nigerian partners in Abuja. This delivery supports Nigeria’s ongoing operations and emphasises our shared security partnership,” AFRICOM said.
WHAT WAS DELIVERED
While AFRICOM did not disclose the specific military tools, reports indicate the supply includes advanced equipment aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s operational capacity.
The delivery follows a recent visit by Nigeria’s Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, to the U.S., aimed at expediting the acquisition of 12 AH-1Z fighter jets from Bell Textron in California.
The AH-1Z attack helicopter features:
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Advanced sensors
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Precision-guided weapons
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Night-fighting capabilities
U.S.-NIGERIA OPERATIONS AGAINST ISWAP
The supply comes in the wake of U.S.-led airstrikes on terrorists in Northwestern Nigeria on December 24, 2025.
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The strikes targeted ISIS-affiliated groups, specifically Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), in Jabo, Tangaza LGA, Sokoto State
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A Lakurawa camp was destroyed, with several militants believed killed
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The operations were conducted at the request of Nigerian authorities
Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said the airstrikes were part of structured international security cooperation, emphasising:
“Nigerian authorities remain engaged with partners, including the U.S., in addressing terrorism and violent extremism. This includes precision strikes, intelligence sharing, strategic coordination, and support consistent with international law, sovereignty, and shared security commitments.”
He added that all counter-terrorism efforts prioritise civilian protection, national unity, and respect for the rights and dignity of all citizens.
AFRICOM AND U.S. MILITARY PARTNERSHIP
AFRICOM, headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, is one of the 11 unified combatant commands of the U.S. Department of Defence.
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It manages U.S. military operations across Africa (except Egypt)
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Responsibilities include regional conflict management and military cooperation with 53 African nations
The delivery of critical assets and the recent airstrikes highlight the deepening Nigeria-U.S. security partnership, aimed at tackling terrorism in both Northwest Nigeria and the wider Lake Chad Basin.
