CDS admits: “Terrorists are everywhere, we need their help” — Gen. Shaibu breaks silence on U.S. military presence

Chief of Defence Staff, Lt. Gen. Shaibu

Chief of Defence Staff, Lt Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has clarified the reason behind the presence of United States military personnel in parts of the country.

He said the U.S. forces were invited to support Nigeria with training and modern military technology.

According to him, the cooperation is focused on strengthening the fight against terrorism and insecurity.

The Defence Chief spoke during an interview at the Ministry of Defence headquarters in Abuja.

He explained that the collaboration is currently limited to specific locations, including parts of Bauchi State.

“Yes, some of them came. We are working together. I don’t know about Borno, but I know they have permission to come into some certain areas in Bauchi to help us in training because of the fight we’re doing.

“They are going to help with technology. The U.S. has very good technology. They have drones. They have the satellite, which is very critical for us.

“Collaboration is something every country does. We are in Liberia to do that. We are in Sierra Leone to do for other countries. We are in Tanzania. We are in Burma. We did for other countries.

“So now we need the help because the terrorists are everywhere, especially since the Sahel is broken. The whole thing started when Libya fell.

“Too many arms, too many criminals and then got into us. So, that is what we are facing. That is why we need all the good support of friendly nations to confront it,” he stated.

Shaibu assured Nigerians that the partnership would not undermine national sovereignty.

He said the arrangement is guided by formal agreements and will only last for a short period.

“Whatever we are doing is based on agreement. They respect our sovereignty. They understand that. We have told them in clear terms. Whatever we’re doing is going to be for a short time. Once we finish the objective, we have to move,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Defence Headquarters confirmed the arrival of about 100 U.S. military personnel and equipment at the Bauchi Airfield.

The military said the deployment followed discussions between Nigerian and U.S. defence officials.

It added that the federal government formally requested support for training, intelligence sharing and technical assistance.

The Director of Defence Information, Maj. Gen. Samaila Uba, said the visiting officers are specialists assigned strictly to advisory and training duties.

He stressed that they are not combat troops.

All activities, he said, will be carried out under Nigerian authority and in close coordination with the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

According to him, Nigerian troops will begin joint training and intelligence-focused operations with the advisers.

The goal is to improve the ability of security forces to detect and neutralise terrorist groups threatening communities across the country.

The military also assured citizens that it remains committed to defeating insurgents and protecting Nigeria’s territorial integrity.