BREAKING: US. Has Been Conducting Intelligence Surveillance Across Nigeria Since November--Report

 BREAKING: US. Has Been Conducting Intelligence Surveillance Across Nigeria Since November In late November 2025, amid escalating concerns o...

 BREAKING: US. Has Been Conducting Intelligence Surveillance Across Nigeria Since November

In late November 2025, amid escalating concerns over religious violence and terrorism in Nigeria, the United States initiated a series of intelligence-gathering flights over vast regions of the country. These operations, conducted by contractor-operated aircraft based in neighboring Ghana, have sparked debates about the extent of U.S. involvement in West African security and the level of coordination with the Nigerian government. While initial reports suggested a unilateral approach, emerging details point to a more collaborative framework, highlighting the complexities of international counterterrorism efforts in a sovereign nation.

The surveillance activities came to light through flight-tracking data and statements from current and former U.S. officials, as detailed in a Reuters exclusive published on December 22, 2025. The aircraft, including models like the Gulfstream V operated by Tenax Aerospace, have been observed departing from Accra, Ghana a known hub for U.S. military logistics in the region and conducting missions over northern Nigeria, particularly areas plagued by insurgent groups such as Boko Haram, ISWAP (Islamic State West Africa Province), and bandits. These flights, which began around late November, focus on intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), utilizing advanced sensors to monitor militant movements, communication networks, and potential threats.

The impetus for these operations appears tied to statements from U.S. President Donald Trump, who in early November 2025 described the violence against Christian communities in Nigeria as an "existential threat," hinting at potential U.S. intervention if the situation did not improve. This rhetoric followed reports of intensified attacks by Islamist militants, including Boko Haram's resurgence in the northeast and banditry in the northwest. Trump's administration, through the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), has historically provided limited support to Nigeria, such as intelligence sharing and training, but balked at deeper involvement due to human rights concerns over Nigerian military practices. The recent flights mark a resumption of such activities, with some analysts viewing them as a preparatory step for more direct action, including possible drone strikes.

Contrary to claims of complete secrecy, evidence suggests varying degrees of Nigerian awareness and involvement. On November 27, 2025, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu approved the formation of a Nigeria-U.S. Joint Working Group aimed at enhancing security cooperation, potentially including intelligence sharing and technology transfers. A statement from a security analyst highlighted a U.S. spy plane conducting reconnaissance over northern Nigeria, gathering data on terrorist locations, and suggested imminent strikes from Ghana-based drones. 

However, the land-based component of surveillance remains less documented. While air operations dominate reports, whispers of ground level intelligence networks potentially involving U.S. contractors or embedded assets circulate in online forums and local media. Some Nigerian commentators express unease, viewing the flights as an infringement on sovereignty, especially if conducted without explicit public consent. For instance, an X post claimed U.S. reconnaissance in western Nigeria from Ghana without announced permission, fueling speculation about behind-closed-doors agreements. Yet, official Nigerian responses have been muted. 

Family Writers Press International.