US conducts secret surveillance flights over Nigeria since November, after Trump’s military threat over Christian persecution
The United States has been conducting intelligence flights over Nigeria since November. Moreover, flight tracking data confirms extensive surveillance operations across the country. Current and former officials have verified these missions.
The surveillance flights signal heightened security cooperation between both nations. However, the exact purpose of these missions remains unclear. Officials have not provided independent confirmation of operational objectives.
Trump warned in November about possible military intervention in Nigeria. Furthermore, he threatened to stop all aid over Christian persecution. The president accused Nigeria of failing to protect Christian communities.
“If the Nigerian Government continues to allow the killing of Christians,” Trump posted. Additionally, he warned the US “may very well go into that country.” His social media post threatened action against Islamic terrorists.
Trump instructed the Department of War to prepare for action. “If we attack, it will be fast, vicious, and sweet,” he stated. The president described potential intervention as retaliatory against terrorist atrocities.
Flight tracking shows aircraft typically depart from Accra, Ghana. Subsequently, they fly over Nigerian airspace before returning to Ghana’s capital. December data reveals consistent operational patterns throughout the month.
The surveillance aircraft is operated by Tenax Aerospace from Mississippi. In addition, the company provides special mission aircraft services. Tenax works closely with the US military on classified operations.
Liam Karr from the American Enterprise Institute analyzed the flight data. Consequently, he identified Accra as a known US military logistics hub. The operation appears to be coordinated from Ghana’s capital.
Karr explained that these flights suggest intelligence capacity rebuilding efforts. Meanwhile, Niger expelled US forces from a major air base recently. Russia has since become Niger’s preferred security partner instead.
“In recent weeks we’ve seen a resumption of surveillance flights,” Karr noted. Therefore, Washington is adapting its regional intelligence strategy. The shift follows significant geopolitical changes in West Africa.
A former US official revealed multiple assets were moved to Ghana. Additionally, missions include tracking a kidnapped American pilot. Intelligence gathering targets Boko Haram and Islamic State affiliates.
Islamic State West Africa Province remains a primary surveillance target. Similarly, other militant groups operating across Nigeria are being monitored. The missions provide critical intelligence on terrorist movements.
A current US official confirmed the aircraft operations over Nigeria. Nevertheless, details were withheld citing diplomatic sensitivity concerns. The official spoke anonymously about the classified missions.
Another administration official emphasized continued cooperation with Nigeria on religious violence. In fact, counter-terrorism efforts remain a shared priority. Both nations are addressing the spread of extremism together.
The Pentagon confirmed productive meetings with Nigerian authorities after Trump’s remarks. However, officials declined to comment on specific intelligence operations. Security cooperation discussions remain ongoing between both governments.
Nigeria’s military spokesperson has not responded to media inquiries. Likewise, Ghana’s deputy defence minister declined to comment publicly. Reuters received no official statements from either country.
