Breaking: U.S. Military Action and Air Strike Pressure in Nigeria Amid Rising Extremist Violence

February 14, 2026 — Abuja, Nigeria: In a major escalation of foreign military involvement in Nigeria’s long-running fight against Islamist insurgent groups, U.S. military forces are stepping up offensive and advisory operations as extremist attacks surge across the country — especially in the northeastern region around Borno State, where Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) continue violent campaigns.

While there have not been confirmed U.S. air strikes inside Borno State itself, international partners have intensified military cooperation with the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Nigerian forces to target extremist networks. This follows the high-profile U.S. Christmas air strikes against ISIS affiliates in northwest Nigeria, which were carried out in coordination with Nigerian intelligence and military support. U.S. Africa Command recently acknowledged the deployment of a small team of American forces to Nigeria, marking the first official U.S. military ground presence since Washington’s aerial operations in late 2025. These troops are advising Nigerian counterparts on counterterrorism strategies and strengthening battlefield coordination for future joint actions.

In a related move, the U.S. government has announced plans to deploy approximately 200 additional troops to Nigeria to train and support the Nigerian military in combating violent extremists. These forces are expected to focus on technical, intelligence, and planning support rather than direct combat engagements.

The ventures come as insurgent violence — including recent attacks in northeastern Nigeria — has continued to claim lives, displace civilians, and strain security forces. Analysts warn that while increased U.S. involvement may pressure extremist networks, challenges on the ground remain profound and complex.

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