The United States has pulled back most of the military personnel deployed to Nigeria for a recent counterterrorism operation following the successful completion of a joint mission with Nigerian security forces against Islamic State (ISIS) fighters in the North-East.
The disclosure was made by the Commander of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), General Dagvin Anderson, during a virtual briefing after the 2026 African Chiefs of Defence Conference in Luanda, Angola.
According to Anderson, the operation targeted a senior ISIS commander believed to be the group’s second-in-command, with responsibility for global operations, recruitment and propaganda.
He explained that while the United States provided intelligence and specialised operational support, Nigerian troops led the ground offensive.
The AFRICOM commander said the American deployment was strictly temporary, adding that most of the personnel involved had already returned home after the mission while security cooperation with Nigeria continues through intelligence sharing and other strategic support.
He noted that the operation formed part of Washington’s strategy of strengthening African-led security initiatives by providing technical expertise and capabilities rather than maintaining a permanent military presence on the continent.
Anderson commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for sustaining pressure on terrorist groups after the operation, saying the country’s military has continued independent operations against ISIS targets in the Lake Chad Basin.
He also revealed that the mission significantly weakened the terrorist group’s leadership structure and disrupted its communication network, leading to an increase in defections and surrenders among fighters operating in Nigeria’s North-East.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Defence Minister, Christopher Musa, confirmed that the U.S. combat troops were deployed specifically for the May operation and departed after completing their assignment.
He clarified that the mission was separate from about 200 American non-combat personnel earlier deployed to Nigeria for training, intelligence and technical support.
The latest development followed growing security cooperation between Nigeria and the United States in the fight against terrorism.
In recent months, both countries have carried out joint operations that have led to the elimination of high-profile ISIS commanders and strengthened ongoing efforts to combat insurgency in the region.
