The United States has been conducting intelligence-gathering surveillance flights over large parts of Nigeria since late November, according to flight tracking data and information provided by current and former US officials.
An exclusive report by Reuters on Monday revealed that the surveillance operations involve sophisticated aircraft capable of collecting intelligence across vast regions. The flights are believed to be part of broader US security monitoring efforts in West Africa, a region grappling with terrorism, banditry, kidnappings, and political instability.
While US authorities have not publicly disclosed specific targets or findings from the surveillance missions, analysts say the flights are likely focused on tracking extremist groups, armed gangs, and transnational security threats operating within and around Nigeria. The development comes amid heightened international concern over Nigeria’s worsening security situation, particularly attacks on civilians, schools, and religious institutions.
Sources familiar with the matter noted that such surveillance flights are not unusual and are often carried out with the aim of supporting counterterrorism efforts, intelligence sharing, and regional security cooperation. However, the report has sparked fresh debate over foreign involvement in Nigeria’s internal security affairs and the transparency of such operations.
As of the time of this report, Nigerian authorities have not officially commented on the alleged US surveillance flights. The revelation is expected to fuel discussions around national sovereignty, security collaboration, and the role of international partners in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.