Echotitbits – Nigeria News

Tag: Counter Terrorism

  • United States Deploys 200 Military Personnel to Nigeria for Counter-Terrorism Training R

    United States Deploys 200 Military Personnel to Nigeria for Counter-Terrorism Training R

    Reporting by The Punch indicates that the United States government has authorized the deployment of 200 military personnel to Nigeria to bolster the country’s fight against insurgency and banditry. This move, reportedly approved by the Trump administration following a request from President Bola Tinubu, focuses specifically on enhancing the “air and infantry operations” of the Nigerian Armed Forces. The troops are expected to arrive in the coming weeks to provide high-level technical guidance and intelligence-gathering strategies.

    The deployment marks a significant escalation in international military cooperation between Abuja and Washington. While the American forces will not be engaged in direct combat on the front lines, their presence is intended to refine the tactical efficiency of Nigerian troops who have been battling Islamic extremists and kidnapping syndicates for over a decade. The collaboration follows recent high-profile security breaches that have drawn international concern toward the West African sub-region.

    Validating this story, Daily Post features comments from U.S. Representative Riley Moore, who stated on Fox News that the situation in Nigeria had become a “bloodbath” requiring urgent intervention. Moore noted, “We are making steps in the right direction to address this persecution… we are sending 200 troops to train the Nigerian military.” Furthermore, Gazette Nigeria highlights the diplomatic context, quoting a U.S. Africa Command spokesperson who said, “We want to partner with capable and willing partners that are able to address these shared security concerns.”

    Echotitbits take:

    The arrival of U.S. special forces suggests a “re-globalization” of Nigeria’s security architecture. While the non-combat role is emphasized to manage public perception, the intelligence and tactical edge provided could be a game-changer for the Nigerian Air Force. The key will be ensuring that these foreign tactics are successfully adapted to the local terrain.

    Source: Leadership – https://leadership.ng/us-deploys-200-troops-to-nigeria/, February 11, 2026

    Photo credit: Leadership

  • President Tinubu and US AFRICOM Chief Hold Critical Security Talks

    President Tinubu and US AFRICOM Chief Hold Critical Security Talks

    President Bola Tinubu met with the Commander of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), General Dagvin Anderson, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja to discuss deepening military cooperation. According to The Punch, the high-level meeting focused on regional stability and the expanding role of technology in counter-terrorism operations following recent strikes on insurgent camps. The discussions highlighted the strategic partnership between Nigeria and the U.S. in addressing the evolving threats in the Sahel and West Africa.

    Figures cited by Premium Times show that the visit comes on the heels of reports indicating that insurgent groups like ISWAP have begun deploying more sophisticated technology, including armed drones, against Nigerian troops. General Anderson’s visit is seen as a commitment to intelligence sharing and tactical support. Channels TV validated the meeting, quoting a State House source who noted: “The partnership aims to leverage U.S. technical expertise to bolster Nigeria’s homegrown security architecture.”

    Validation from The Guardian also highlighted the presence of top Nigerian security chiefs, including the National Security Adviser and the Chief of Defence Staff. The report cited General Anderson saying, “The United States remains committed to a secure and prosperous Nigeria, which is central to the stability of the entire continent.” This diplomatic engagement underscores the administration’s intent to professionalize the military and integrate global best practices into local operations.

    Echotitbits take:

    This meeting signifies a deepening of military ties at a time when Nigeria faces new-age threats like drone warfare from ISWAP. The involvement of AFRICOM suggests that Nigeria might soon receive more advanced surveillance and counter-drone technology. Watch for a possible announcement regarding new hardware acquisitions or training programs for the Nigerian Air Force.

    Source: Arise – https://www.arise.tv/tinubu-meets-africom-commander-us-envoy-to-discuss-security-cooperation/, February 9, 2026

    Photo credit: Arise

  • US AFRICOM Confirms Deployment of Elite Military Team to Nigeria

    US AFRICOM Confirms Deployment of Elite Military Team to Nigeria

    According to Daily Post reporting on February 4, 2026, the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) has officially acknowledged the arrival of a specialized military unit in Nigeria following high-level bilateral agreements. This deployment follows a series of recent airstrikes authorized by the US administration aimed at neutralising insurgent threats within the West African region. General Dagvin R.M. Anderson of AFRICOM noted that the team brings “unique capabilities” to support Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts, though specific mission details remain classified.

    The move marks a significant deepening of security cooperation between Abuja and Washington as the country continues to grapple with banditry and regional instability. Military insiders suggest that the US team will focus primarily on intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) to assist Nigerian ground troops in locating high-value targets. This development comes amid a broader debate regarding foreign military footprints on Nigerian soil.

    Validating reports from The Guardian and Vanguard confirm the arrival of the foreign specialists. The Guardian reports that the deployment is a direct response to a surge in asymmetric threats, noting that “the presence of these specialists is intended to bridge the technology gap in jungle warfare.” Furthermore, Vanguard indicates that Nigerian security chiefs have welcomed the move, quoting a source who stated, “This partnership is a necessary evolution in our strategy to finally end the cycle of banditry in the North.”

    Echotitbits take: The arrival of US troops signifies a pivot toward more aggressive, technology-driven counter-insurgency operations. While this offers a boost to Nigeria’s intelligence capacity, the government must manage public perception regarding sovereignty and the potential for civilian casualties in air-to-ground operations. Watch for increased surgical strikes in the coming weeks as the “unique capabilities” mentioned by AFRICOM are deployed in the field.

    Source: Tell.ng – https://tell.ng/us-military-deployment-nigeria-counterterrorism/, February 4, 2026

    Photo credit: Tell.ng

  • Federal Government Moves to Disrupt Terrorist Bomb-Making Networks

    Federal Government Moves to Disrupt Terrorist Bomb-Making Networks

    In a security update published by The Punch, the Nigerian government has launched a specialized operation to dismantle the supply chains used by terrorists to manufacture Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). The initiative focuses on tracking and restricting the flow of explosive materials, chemicals, and electronic components frequently intercepted in conflict zones. This follows a recent Boko Haram attack in Borno State that claimed the lives of five soldiers and 15 civilians, underscoring the urgent need for a more proactive counter-IED strategy.

    Security agencies have been directed to tighten surveillance at borders and monitor the sale of dual-use chemicals in the open market. The National Security Adviser’s office is coordinating with industrial chemical importers to ensure that materials meant for manufacturing and mining do not end up in the hands of insurgents. The government believes that by “choking” the supply of bomb-making materials, they can significantly reduce the lethality of terrorist operations.

    The operation was also validated by Daily Post and Premium Times. Daily Post reported that “new checkpoints are being established specifically to inspect chemical shipments,” while Premium Times noted that “intelligence sharing with neighboring countries has been intensified to track cross-border smuggling.”

    Echotitbits take:

    Choking the supply chain is a smarter long-term strategy than just kinetic warfare. However, the challenge will be doing this without hurting legitimate businesses in the mining and construction sectors that rely on these chemicals. Watch for new licensing requirements for chemical distributors.

    Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/fg-to-disrupt-terrorists-bomb-making-supply-chains/, January 31, 2026

    Photo credit: Adobe Stock

  • Nigerian Troops Neutralize Terror Commanders in Sambisa Forest Raid

    Nigerian Troops Neutralize Terror Commanders in Sambisa Forest Raid

    Nigerian Troops Neutralize Terror Commanders in Sambisa Forest Raid

    In an update published by Daily Post, the Nigerian military’s Operation Hadin Kai recorded a significant victory against Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents in the Sambisa Forest and Mandara Mountains. During Operation Desert Sanity V, ground troops reportedly repelled an ambush, resulting in the death of 10 terrorists. Two high-ranking commanders, identified as Basulhu and Ubaida, were among those neutralized.

    The operation also led to the recovery of weapons, communication gadgets, and logistics supplies. Military sources said the encounter at Malkube was particularly intense, but that the troops suffered no casualties. The offensive is part of a renewed dry-season push to eliminate the remnants of terror cells attempting to regroup along the border with Cameroon.

    Further reporting from The Punch confirmed the military’s success, quoting a spokesperson who said forces are maintaining a high tempo to ensure no safe haven remains for insurgent elements. Leadership newspaper also validated the report, adding that civilian intelligence played a key role in tracking the movements of the neutralized commanders.

    Echotitbits take: Eliminating top-tier commanders is a major blow to insurgents’ command-and-control structures. Beyond battlefield wins, the next challenge is holding territory long enough for displaced residents to return safely. Expect increased border patrols to prevent fighters from slipping into neighboring countries.

    Source: Zagozola — https://zagazola.org/index.php/breaking-news/troops-neutralise-two-terrorists-recover-arms-in-sambisa-forest (2026-01-23)

    Photo Credit: Zagozola 2026-01-23

  • Nigerian Air Force to Leverage US Intelligence for Enhanced Counter‑Terrorism Strikes

    Nigerian Air Force to Leverage US Intelligence for Enhanced Counter‑Terrorism Strikes

    Reporting by The Guardian indicates that the Nigerian Air Force plans to intensify operations against insurgent groups by incorporating reconnaissance data provided by the United States to better locate and strike terrorist hideouts.

    Nigerian officials say the military will integrate real‑time intelligence from US flight missions to improve target accuracy, build on recent strikes in the Northwest and Northeast, and reduce collateral damage while increasing operational effectiveness.

    The development was also reported by Vanguard and The Nation, which both highlighted the expected impact of intelligence sharing on Nigeria’s air campaign against ISWAP and bandit networks.

    Echotitbits take: The integration of US recon data addresses a long‑standing gap in actionable intelligence. If implemented well, it could help disrupt bandit leadership and logistics—provided the military maintains strong ground‑level human intelligence to avoid over‑reliance on technology.

    Source: AirForce – https://airforce.mil.ng/news/united-states-commends-nigerian-air-force-counter-terrorism-efforts1323475460 2026-01-07

    Photo Credit: Nigerian Air Force Media

  • Israel to Partner with Nigeria on Intelligence Sharing for Christian Protection

    Israel to Partner with Nigeria on Intelligence Sharing for Christian Protection

    According to BusinessDay, Israel announced a new partnership with Nigeria focused on intelligence sharing and security support aimed at preventing extremist attacks, including the provision of advanced surveillance support and tactical training.

    Israeli officials framed the initiative as part of broader cooperation on religious freedom and counter‑insurgency expertise, while Nigeria seeks improved threat detection in vulnerable regions.

    The Punch and The Guardian also reported the announcement, noting Israel’s emphasis on intelligence‑led prevention and the diplomatic context around expanding security partnerships.

    Echotitbits take: Intelligence support is useful, but the “Christian protection” framing could be politically sensitive in a multi‑religious state. Nigeria may need to present the partnership as broader counter‑terrorism cooperation to avoid inflaming sectarian narratives.

    Source: BusinessDay — https://www.google.com/amp/s/businessday.ng/world/article/israel-says-christian-protection-plan-for-nigeria-will-focus-on-intelligence-sharing/ 2026-01-07

    Photo Credit: BusinessDay

  • Military Arrests Eight Suspects Linked to Market Suicide Bombing Network

    Military Arrests Eight Suspects Linked to Market Suicide Bombing Network

    Reporting by TVC News (as cited in Channels TV feeds) indicates that troops of Operation Hadin Kai have successfully apprehended eight individuals in Adamawa State linked to the network behind the Gamboru Market Mosque suicide bombing. The operation, conducted in Mubi South Local Government Area, led to the capture of two principal suspects believed to be the primary facilitators of the attack. During the raid, security forces recovered cash, mobile phones, and identification documents currently undergoing forensic analysis. Military sources confirmed that an earlier suspect in custody provided the intelligence that led to the identification of these individuals as the suppliers of materials for the improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The counter-terrorism breakthrough was also reported by Daily Post and The Punch. Daily Post noted that ‘Troops seize terror supplies,’ while The Punch reported that ‘Sokoto strikes provide momentum’ for the military to expand operations across the North-East and North-West.

    Echotitbits take: The arrest of facilitators is often more critical than neutralizing foot soldiers, as it disrupts the supply chain for IEDs. This success in Adamawa suggests improved intelligence-sharing between captured insurgents and the military. The focus will now shift to the forensic analysis of the seized mobile phones to track further cells.

    Source: TheCable – https://www.thecable.ng/troops-arrest-eight-suspects-linked-to-borno-mosque-bombing/ January 6 2026

    Photo Credit: TheCable

  • Troops Neutralize Eight Terrorists in Borno and Kogi Operations

    Troops Neutralize Eight Terrorists in Borno and Kogi Operations

    According to The Punch, the Nigerian Army has successfully neutralized eight terrorists during coordinated raids in Borno and Kogi states. In Borno, troops ambushed a Boko Haram supply route, killing five insurgents, while a separate operation in Kogi led to the death of three kidnappers who had been terrorizing travelers along the Lokoja-Abuja highway. Three civilians were also rescued during these operations.

    Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, stated that the raids were based on actionable intelligence from local communities. He noted that a significant cache of weapons, including AK-47 rifles and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), was recovered from the scenes. The military has vowed to maintain the ‘offensive momentum’ as the dry season provides better mobility for ground troops.

    Validation of these victories was reported by Channels TV and Daily Post. Channels TV noted that ‘air support played a crucial role in the Borno operation,’ while Daily Post quoted a resident: ‘We feel a bit safer seeing the soldiers actively patrolling the highway again.’

    Echotitbits take: Neutralizing eight terrorists is a tactical win, but the geographical spread—from Borno to Kogi—shows that the insurgency and banditry remain decentralized. The rescue of three civilians is the real highlight here, as it boosts public confidence in military ‘intelligence-led’ operations.
    Source: Zagazola – https://zagazola.org/index.php/breaking-news/troops-kill-8-boko-haram-terrorists-including-2-commanders-in-borno-clash January 5, 2026

    Photo Credit: Zagazola

  • Tinubu urges tougher ECOWAS collective action as coups and insecurity spread

    Tinubu urges tougher ECOWAS collective action as coups and insecurity spread

    2025-12-15 08:00:00

    According to The Punch, President Bola Tinubu called on ECOWAS leaders to strengthen unity and collective responses to military coups and regional instability at the bloc’s 68th ordinary session in Abuja.

    Punch reports discussions referenced recent attempted and successful power grabs and the need to operationalise stronger preventive measures, including coordination on intelligence and border management.

    The report situates the push within wider debates about how ECOWAS balances sanctions, diplomacy and security deployments.

    Analysis/Echotitbits take: ECOWAS credibility now hinges on consistent enforcement and funding for its security architecture. Watch for concrete decisions on standby-force financing, timelines for deployments, and how the bloc handles Guinea‑Bissau and other flashpoints.

    Source: The Punch — December 14, 2025

    The Punch https://punchng.com/tinubu-urges-ecowas-unity-to-resist-coups-ensure-regional-stability/ December 14, 2025