The United States has delivered military equipment to the Nigerian Air Force as part of an ongoing foreign military sales agreement aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s capacity to combat terrorism and other security threats in the region.
The delivery was transported by a U.S. Air Force C-17 aircraft and is one of several consignments expected under the agreement between the United States and Nigeria.
The U.S. Mission in Nigeria, in a statement, said the equipment would support the Nigerian Armed Forces in their efforts to counter terrorism and enhance regional security.
According to the mission, the delivery underscores the growing security partnership between Nigeria and the United States and reflects Washington’s continued support for Nigeria’s efforts to address threats posed by terrorist organisations and other armed groups.
The United States also reaffirmed that its military assistance to Nigeria is provided at the invitation of the Nigerian Government and is based on respect for the country’s sovereignty.
“U.S. military support to the Armed Forces of Nigeria is by its invitation and rooted in respect for Nigerian sovereignty,” the U.S. Mission Nigeria said.
The latest delivery is expected to further strengthen cooperation between the two countries in the areas of defence, counter-terrorism and regional security.
Nigeria has continued to work with international partners to improve the capabilities of its armed forces, particularly in intelligence, surveillance, air operations, logistics and other areas critical to combating terrorism and insurgency.
The United States has been one of Nigeria’s major international security partners, providing various forms of military assistance, training and equipment to support the country’s efforts to confront terrorism and violent extremism.
The latest equipment delivery is expected to contribute to the operational capabilities of the Nigerian Air Force as it continues to support ongoing security operations across the country and the wider region.