Additionally, the DHQ reiterated that continued US assistance is bolstering counterterrorism efforts, with a noticeable effect anticipated in the upcoming weeks.
Speaking to reporters at the end-of-month briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, Maj Gen Michael Onoja, Director of Defense Media Operations, reassured the public that troops would be more vigilant around Easter.
Onoja stated that in order to prevent any security breaches during the holiday season, the Armed Forces had already put people on alert nationwide.
He went on to say that same practices, which were put in place during earlier holiday seasons like Christmas and Eid-el-Fitr, would continue.
“We are aware that there are often more security measures during holiday seasons. To guarantee that every employee is on guard, the military headquarters issues directives. “This time won’t be any different,” he declared.
He emphasized that despite the festivities, security services would not unwind, pointing out that enemies frequently tried to take advantage of these times.
“I can guarantee you that we will always be vigilant, especially at this time of celebration, since we are aware that the threats anticipate our relaxation.
However, we won’t unwind. This Easter, everything will be alright,” he continued.
Speaking on the ongoing cooperation with US forces, Onoja expressed optimism that the advantages will become apparent in the upcoming weeks and months, even though the impact of the cooperation may not be immediately apparent due to the nature of military engagements.
He stated that the United States had contributed significantly to Nigeria’s efforts, especially in the areas of training and intelligence sharing, and that the help was given on favorable conditions to bolster continuing counter-threat activities.
“You are aware that they are bringing intelligence and training support to us, which we need,” he said. We are receiving that on extremely favorable circumstances. I am unable to disclose many things due to confidentiality.
He emphasized that Nigerian troops would respond appropriately, adding that the data being sent contained details on the whereabouts of hostile groups and threats.
We can only conclude that these processes require time. When we are performing military operations, there is a gestation stage.
Onoja said, “You won’t notice it right away, but in the coming months or weeks, you will feel the difference in the impact of the assistance that the U.S. is providing.”
The arrival of about 100 US military personnel and equipment at Bauchi Airfield was announced by DHQ on February 16, 2026.
The military high command claims that the men, who are not combat forces, were only in Nigeria to provide technical support, training, and advisory services for counterterrorism initiatives.
However, since their deployment, insecurity has increased in a number of regions of the nation, casting doubt on the success of the partnership.
