US Troops, Military Aircraft Arrive in North-East Nigeria Ahead of Anti-ISWAP Operations

Maiduguri, Borno State — The first batch of United States troops and multiple US military aircraft have arrived in north-east Nigeria ahead of planned joint operations targeting Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) militants in the region.

According to reports by The New York Times, a US military aircraft landed in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, on Thursday night, marking the initial deployment phase. By Friday evening, at least three US aircraft were visible at the military base, with personnel observed offloading equipment and supplies.

Security sources indicate that the deployment is part of enhanced military cooperation between Nigeria and the United States aimed at strengthening counter-terrorism efforts in the Lake Chad Basin, where ISWAP and other armed groups remain active.

While official details of the mission remain limited, the arrival of troops and aircraft signals a significant escalation in logistical and operational coordination. Observers at the base reported visible movement of military hardware, suggesting preparations for sustained activities.

Nigeria’s north-east has experienced prolonged insurgency-related violence, prompting ongoing domestic and regional military responses. Analysts note that international partnerships have increasingly played a role in intelligence sharing, training, and operational support.

Neither US nor Nigerian authorities have publicly disclosed the size of the deployment or the specific scope of the planned offensive. However, defence watchers say the presence of US assets underscores continuing international concern over extremist threats in the region.

Military activity at the Maiduguri base remained heightened as of late Friday, with further developments expected as operations progress.