US withdrew forces from Nigeria after operation against ISIS

The United States withdrew most of the forces deployed for a recent operation against Islamic State militants in Nigeria and is now providing intelligence support at Abuja's request, according to the AFRICOM chief.

This shift marks a transition from direct combat involvement to intelligence-only assistance, reflecting evolving strategic priorities in the region.

  • Nigeria has faced persistent terrorist threats from Boko Haram and ISWAP since the early 2010s.
  • The U.S. has maintained a small military presence in Nigeria primarily for training and counter-terrorism advisory roles.
  • Lake Chad Basin, where many ISIS operations occur, spans four countries and is a hotspot for regional instability.
US withdrew forces from Nigeria after operation against ISIS | Implica