US Govt Affirms No Plans For Military Base In Nigeria Amid Troops Withdrawal From Niger

The United States government has reiterated that it has no intentions of establishing a military base in Nigeria following the withdrawal of American troops from Niger.

This was confirmed by the Element Lead for Coordination at US Africa Command (AFRICOM), Major General Kenneth Eckman, during a press briefing in Abuja on Friday.

He acknowledged that the presence of U.S. forces can raise concerns due to the associated costs and benefits, but he reassured the public that no discussions are ongoing between U.S. and Nigerian authorities about setting up a military base in Nigeria.

“There are no plans for a U.S. base here in Nigeria. I recognize it is a popular concern. I recognize that the presence of U.S. forces comes with costs and benefits, depending on the context but I just want to reassure you there are no plans,” General Eckman stated, addressing widespread speculation.

General Eckman clarified that his visit to Nigeria was not connected to any plans for a U.S. base but rather focused on addressing security challenges in the Sahel region.

He said, “I am aware of no discussions between U.S. and Nigerian authorities on placing a U.S. base in Nigeria as a result of the Niger withdrawal. I want to be perfectly clear on that. However, the problem we’re trying to solve is Sahelian-based violent extremism, and if the U.S. is not functioning in Niger, the question is then where should we be?

“That’s what led us to an outside-in approach relative to the Sahel. And then anytime you talk about outside-in, the important question is what is Nigeria’s role, given the strength of the nation, given the closeness of our partnership. So it’s a very natural question. And I’m not surprised that some people assumed that there were discussions going on about this.

“As military strategists, we talk about key terrain. And right now the key terrain dealing with ISIS-Sahel and with JNIM is in the tri-border region that includes the western part of Niger and also Burkina Faso. That terrain is very important. Just ask our Burkinabe partners. That partnership, as you know, has waned.

“So what we are doing is boosting our cooperation with Cote-d’Ivoire, Ghana and other allies with more trainings and collaboration.”

He noted that while the military withdrawal from Niger is nearly complete, with the last U.S. forces and equipment having been evacuated, regional security remains a significant concern.

The general emphasized that AFRICOM’s efforts in West Africa are conducted in close partnership with regional military forces and are focused on enhancing their capabilities rather than direct U.S. intervention.

Discussing the broader security situation, General Eckman highlighted the importance of cooperation among West African nations, particularly in light of the growing threat from violent extremist organizations.

He praised the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) in the Lake Chad Basin, led by a Nigerian commander, for its efforts in maintaining security in that area.

Regarding the ongoing threat of terrorism and violent extremism, General Eckman stressed that military action alone is not a sufficient solution.

He underscored the need to address underlying causes such as governance issues, access to services, and competition for resources exacerbated by climate change.

He emphasized that AFRICOM’s role is part of a broader U.S. strategy that includes diplomatic, economic, and humanitarian efforts aimed at fostering long-term stability in the region.

General Eckman reiterated the United States’ commitment to supporting West African nations in their fight against terrorism, while also working to address the root causes of instability through continued development and humanitarian assistance, even in countries currently under military rule.