No fewer than three military aircraft from the United States reportedly landed in Nigeria between Thursday and Friday, bringing ammunition and logistical support for ongoing security operations in the country’s northeast.
Senior officers at the Defence Headquarters said the deliveries followed bilateral security discussions and were aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s fight against insurgency.
Some of the aircraft reportedly touched down in Maiduguri and other parts of Borno State, areas heavily affected by militant activity.
A report by The New York Times noted that at least three aircraft were seen at a military base, with equipment being offloaded.
A US Department of Defense official described the flights as the beginning of sustained transport operations into multiple Nigerian locations.
Separately, a US Air Force C-130J-30 cargo aircraft was reported to have landed at Kaduna International Airport after departing Ghana, fuelling speculation about expanded training cooperation with Nigerian forces.
In 2025, US President Donald Trump warned of possible intervention if Nigeria failed to curb attacks on Christians.
Security cooperation has since intensified, with reports indicating the arrival of intelligence analysts, advisers and trainers rather than frontline combat troops.
Experts weigh in
Retired Nigerian Army intelligence officer Chris Andrew said the deployment should be seen mainly as technical assistance, particularly in drone surveillance and precision air operations. He also suggested Nigeria could benefit from hosting a drone base following the US military withdrawal from Niger, possibly near the Sambisa Forest.
Security analyst Chidi Omeje described the collaboration as a diplomatic win but stressed that Nigeria must maintain sovereignty over all joint operations.
Meanwhile, Director of Defence Media Operations Michael Onoja had not officially commented on the reported aircraft movements as of press time.
Analysts say further aircraft arrivals, training programmes and intelligence cooperation are likely in the coming weeks as both countries deepen efforts to tackle terrorism, banditry and insurgency across Nigeria.
