AFRICOM deputy commander says expanded cooperation is part of a broader US strategy to dismantle ISIS-linked networks across Africa.

The United States has increased intelligence sharing and the supply of military equipment to Nigeria as part of an intensified counterterrorism partnership aimed at dismantling Islamic State-linked militant networks across Africa.

The Deputy Commander of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), Lieutenant General John Brennan, disclosed that the US military is expanding materiel deliveries and intelligence support to Nigerian security forces to strengthen ongoing operations against extremist groups.

According to Brennan, the move forms part of a broader American strategy to collaborate more closely with African militaries in targeting jihadist organisations affiliated with the Islamic State (ISIS).

He added that the Pentagon has also maintained open lines of communication with the militaries of junta-led Sahel countries, including Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali, despite political tensions in the region.

The increased US support to Nigeria reflects deeper cooperation with Abuja following sustained diplomatic pressure from Washington over escalating jihadist violence within the country.

“Under the Trump administration, we’ve become far more aggressive and are working closely with partners to target threats kinetically, primarily ISIS,” Brennan said.

He further noted that militant networks across Africa are interconnected, requiring a coordinated regional response.

“From Somalia to Nigeria, the problem set is connected. We are working to dismantle these networks and provide our partners with the intelligence and information they need to counter the threats effectively,” Brennan added.

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