The United States government has officially authorized the sum of $413.046 million (approximately N587 billion) to fund military operations across Nigeria and other West African nations.
This significant financial commitment is aimed at tackling the persistent wave of insecurity, including banditry and terrorism, that has plagued the region.
The funding is a key component of the newly signed US National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for the 2026 fiscal year.
This comprehensive defense bill, which outlines a total global military expenditure of $901 billion, was signed into law by President Donald Trump on December 18, 2025.
Moreover, the specific allocation for the US Africa Command (AFRICOM) was approved under the “Operation and Maintenance” category to bolster the fight against extremist groups.
This move comes on the heels of direct US military involvement in Nigeria. On Christmas Day 2025, American forces conducted airstrikes against terrorist hideouts in Sokoto State.
Following this, AFRICOM delivered a fresh consignment of military equipment to Nigerian security agencies this past Tuesday.
The equipment handover in Abuja is seen as a strategic step to modernize the Nigerian military’s hardware and improve its tactical response to insurgency.
Beyond the financial aid, the NDAA 2026 introduces structural changes to how the US manages its interests in Africa.
The Act establishes a new Bureau of African Affairs and the position of Assistant Secretary for African Affairs within the Department of State.
These offices will be tasked with overseeing foreign policy and coordinating security assistance specifically for sub-Saharan Africa.
Furthermore, the law mandates a thorough assessment of Russia’s growing military presence and influence on the continent, signaling a shift toward addressing geopolitical rivalries alongside counter-terrorism goals.