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US to send 200 troops to Nigeria to train the military in its ongoing fight against Islamist militants and ISWAP.

The United States has announced plans to send approximately 200 troops to Nigeria to help train the country’s military. This move is part of a major effort to bolster Nigeria's defense against the growing threat of Islamist militants.

This news comes just weeks after President Donald Trump ordered airstrikes against what were described as Islamic State targets within the country. 

While the U.S. previously acknowledged having a "small team" on the ground, this new deployment of 200 soldiers marks a significant increase in American involvement.

The U.S. military has been closely monitoring the region for some time. Reports indicate that surveillance flights have been operating over Nigeria from neighboring Ghana since late last year. 

The goal is to provide the Nigerian military with the tactical skills needed to reclaim territory from groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP.

The deployment also follows recent diplomatic friction. Washington has pressured the Nigerian government to do more to protect citizens, particularly following allegations regarding the safety of Christian communities in the northwest.

However, the Nigerian government has firmly denied any claims of religious persecution. 

Officials in Abuja insist that the military is focused on eliminating terrorists who target and kill Nigerians regardless of their faith.

With a 17-year insurgency still claiming lives and disrupting communities, this international support is seen as a critical boost for Nigeria’s security forces. 

Both nations hope this partnership will bring much-needed stability to West Africa’s most populous country.