The United States has approved $413 million in funding for counter-insurgency and security operations in Nigeria and other West African countries for the 2026 fiscal year. The allocation follows the signing of the National Defence Authorisation Act (NDAA) into law in December 2025 and forms part of a broader defence spending package that totals $901 billion, including a four per cent pay raise for US service members—the 65th consecutive annual defence authorisation.
The funding, allocated under the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) budget, highlights Washington’s concern over growing insecurity in the region. While the Act does not provide a detailed, country-by-country breakdown, the $413 million represents the full sum requested by AFRICOM for its African operations and maintenance.
Nigeria continues to face serious security challenges. A prolonged insurgency in the North-East, increasing banditry in the North-West, and piracy in the Gulf of Guinea have strained government and security forces. Neighboring countries are also under pressure: Mali is grappling with renewed militant activity, while northern Benin has seen spillover violence from the Sahel region. The approval of this funding underscores the United States’ commitment to supporting its African partners in maintaining regional stability.
Recent weeks have seen a spike in US-Nigerian military cooperation. AFRICOM confirmed the delivery of military equipment to Nigerian security agencies in Abuja, describing it as part of a “shared security partnership.” In addition, US airstrikes on suspected terrorist hideouts in Sokoto State over Christmas 2025, conducted in coordination with Nigerian authorities, indicate a deepening operational collaboration. The United States is providing intelligence, logistical support, and strategic guidance to Nigerian forces, reflecting an elevated role in addressing the complex security landscape of the region.
Beyond financial support, the NDAA introduces several policy changes aimed at strengthening US engagement in Africa. It establishes a new Assistant Secretary for African Affairs at the State Department and creates a Bureau of African Affairs to better coordinate US foreign policy, security assistance, and diplomatic outreach across sub-Saharan Africa. These structural reforms are intended to streamline US involvement in the continent and ensure that military and development efforts are closely aligned.
The legislation also mandates a comprehensive review of Russia’s military activities and posture in Africa, a measure likely to influence AFRICOM, US Central Command, and European Command strategic planning. Analysts suggest this is part of a broader effort to monitor the activities of global powers in Africa, ensuring that US policy remains proactive amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.
The approval of the $413 million funding package comes at a critical moment, as West Africa faces multiple overlapping security crises. The region’s governments are under pressure to respond to threats ranging from terrorism and armed banditry to maritime criminal networks. By providing targeted support and resources, the United States aims to bolster regional security architecture while reinforcing partnerships that enhance stability and protect civilian populations.
