The Nigerian military has explained that the planned withdrawal of about 200 United States troops from Nigeria is part of the evolving nature of the security and counterterrorism partnership between both countries.

The Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, said the deployment of the American personnel was specifically linked to operational support and counterterrorism activities in Nigeria.

According to him, while the main body of the US troops is expected to leave Nigeria by the end of September, aspects of the security partnership, including intelligence sharing, training and advisory support, will continue.

Uba stressed that the withdrawal does not signal an end to military cooperation between Nigeria and the United States.

He said the Nigerian Armed Forces would continue to take primary responsibility for protecting the country’s territorial integrity and ensuring the safety of its citizens.

“The decision to withdraw the 200 troops from Nigeria is part of the evolving nature of that engagement,” the Defence spokesman said.

The United States had deployed about 200 military personnel to Nigeria earlier in 2026 for a limited counterterrorism mission amid growing concerns over terrorism and other security challenges in the country.

The planned drawdown is expected to see most of the troops leave by late September, while a smaller team of American advisers and intelligence personnel will reportedly remain in Nigeria.

Major General Uba said the Nigeria-US security partnership had continued to strengthen the capacity of the Nigerian military through intelligence cooperation, training and information exchange.

He added that the collaboration has contributed significantly to ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and other transnational security threats.

The military maintained that Nigeria remains committed to working with international partners while retaining primary responsibility for the defence and security of the country.