Why Nigerians Are Yet To See Effect Of American Forces – DHQ

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has appealed for patience on the part of Nigerians as it relates to the challenges of insecurity despite the deployment of American soldiers in the country.

The Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Micheal Onoja, who addressed the concerns on Tuesday, during the military’s end of month briefing in Abuja, said Nigeria’s collaboration with the United States military will soon begin to deliver visible results.

Despite the current security challenges, Onoja described US support as “significant,” particularly in intelligence sharing and specialised training.

He explained that military operations require time before tangible outcomes become evident, adding that the foreign security personnel are strictly in advisory roles and not involved in combat operations.

“You may not see the impact immediately. There is always a gestation period in military engagements, but in the coming weeks and months, the difference will be clear,” he said.

Recall that the DHQ had previously confirmed the arrival of about 100 US military personnel and equipment at Bauchi Airfield on February 16, 2026, for technical support in Nigeria’s counter terrorism operations.

Meanwhile, the DHQ also announced a heightened nationwide alert ahead of the upcoming Easter celebrations.

According to Onoja, troops have been placed on high alert to forestall any potential attacks during the festive period, noting that similar measures adopted during previous celebrations have proven effective.

He warned that security forces would not lower their guard, stressing that criminal elements often exploit festive periods to launch attacks.

“We understand the tactics of these threats. They expect a relaxed atmosphere during celebrations, but we are fully prepared and will not relent,” he added.