The United States has deployed about 200 troops to Nigeria to train the country’s military in the fight against Islamist militants, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal on Tuesday. The report said the troops were expected to strengthen Nigeria’s counterterrorism capacity through training and operational support. This clarification followed media reports and public speculation suggesting the deployment of US troops in Nigeria. “The Defence Headquarters has noted recent media reports and public speculation suggesting the presence or deployment of United States troops in Nigeria. “The Armed Forces of Nigeria wishes to state that Nigeria maintains a long-standing and structured security partnership with the United States,” the statement read.
