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The Nigerian military says United States troops deployed in the country are using high-capability drones for surveillance and intelligence gathering as part of ongoing training operations.
According to Major General Samaila Uba, director of defence information at Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters, the US personnel are operating MQ-9 Reaper drones from an air base in Bauchi State, supporting efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s fight against jihadist groups.
He explained that the drones are being used strictly for reconnaissance purposes, despite their capability to carry out strikes.
Uba said the collaboration is aimed at boosting Nigeria’s independent capacity to detect, monitor, and counter terrorist activities, adding that it has significantly improved intelligence sharing and operational coordination.
The deployment forms part of broader US support to Nigeria, which includes training, intelligence cooperation, and arms assistance in the ongoing fight against insurgency.
“The drones are capable of strikes but are only being used for reconnaissance.
“US support is designed to enhance Nigeria’s ability to independently detect, track and disrupt terrorist activity.
“This partnership has improved intelligence sharing, operational coordination, and the overall effectiveness of Nigerian-led efforts against violent extremist organizations.”
Both countries have maintained that US troops are not engaged in combat roles within Nigeria.
The use of the drones follows reports by researchers who tracked months of US drone activity over Nigeria last year, with flights originating from neighbouring Ghana.
The United States had previously operated a major drone base in Niger, which was shut down after the country’s military government ordered US forces to leave.
However, US Africa Command has indicated it has no plans to establish a replacement drone base elsewhere in the region.
In late 2025, US forces carried out strikes targeting militants linked to the Islamic State Sahel Province in Nigeria’s northwest, with the approval of Nigerian authorities.
The strikes came as pressure mount from the administration of US President Donald Trump, who had criticised Nigeria’s handling of insecurity, claims widely disputed by analysts, who say the violence affects people across religious lines.
Despite differences over the narrative, both countries have continued to deepen defence cooperation.
