By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Hon. Philip Agbese, has described the deployment of 100 American soldiers to Nigeria as a major boost in the fight against terrorism. He spoke in Abuja, where he explained that the Nigerian government requested the deployment to Bauchi State to strengthen intelligence, training, and operational support against terrorist groups. According to him, the move marks a turning point in Nigeria–US security cooperation under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
Strengthening Nigeria–US Security Partnership
Agbese said the Nigeria–US security partnership reflects growing global confidence in the leadership of Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He noted that Nigeria now engages the United States from a position of strategic clarity and mutual respect.
He also commended the working relationship between Tinubu and US President Donald Trump. According to him, their synergy has strengthened bilateral security efforts.
Furthermore, he cited the Christmas Day precision airstrikes on terrorist enclaves in Sokoto State as proof of decisive leadership.
Deployment to Bauchi State
The US personnel, stationed in Bauchi State, will train Nigerian forces and provide intelligence support. Agbese explained that the team will help combat groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province.
He stressed that the collaboration goes beyond symbolism. Instead, it focuses on practical outcomes that enhance operational capacity and technical expertise.
As a result, Nigerian forces will gain access to specialised tools to detect and neutralise terrorist threats.
Improved Military Coordination
Agbese praised the leadership of Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for improving coordination across the armed forces. He also commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, and Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Undiandeye.
According to him, the armed forces now operate with better coordination, stronger morale, and improved equipment. Moreover, ongoing reforms and strategic partnerships continue to deliver measurable results.
Addressing Sovereignty Concerns
Agbese dismissed claims that the presence of US troops undermines Nigeria’s sovereignty. He clarified that the Nigerian government formally requested the deployment. Therefore, the partnership aligns fully with national interests.
He added that Nigeria does not stand alone in the fight against terrorism. Instead, it now benefits from enhanced intelligence sharing and specialised support.
A Clear Message to Terror Financiers
Agbese concluded that the evolving Nigeria–US security partnership signals proactive diplomacy and results-driven governance. He warned individuals and networks financing terrorism that their space for impunity continues to shrink.
Ultimately, he described the deployment as a strategic step that strengthens Nigeria’s resolve to defeat terrorism and violent crime.
