In a major effort to bolster regional security and tactical readiness, United States military personnel have expanded joint training operations alongside Nigerian troops at Operating Location (OL) Bauchi.
Details released by the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) on Monday, August 24, 2026, highlight a customized curriculum aimed at building long-term partner capacity.
​Rather than imposing a standard protocol, American forces coordinate directly with local commanders to tailor the instruction.
​”We bring them a list of several different training topics, and they select what they think would be most beneficial for them,” explained Capt. Gabriel Feingold, a logistics officer with the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) and operations officer at OL Bauchi.
​The joint initiative spans a wide array of specialized capabilities, including Combat Lifesaver and Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC), Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) operation and tactical intelligence gathering, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) and small-unit tactics and Weapons familiarization, camouflage, and field water treatment and testing.
​A central component of recent sessions focused on Unmanned Aircraft Systems. Sgt. Mark Murphy, an intelligence analyst with the 13th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, conducted a session for approximately 10 members of the Nigerian Air Force Special Forces Regiment.
Following a brief 45-minute classroom introduction, Nigerian personnel moved straight into practical flight control and surveillance integration.
​”They were really excited with being able to get hands-on time with it,” Murphy noted, emphasizing the value of empowering troops with real-time operational skills. “I love training Soldiers… to make them ready.”
​Beyond tactical instruction, the engagement at OL Bauchi emphasizes building camaraderie. Personnel from both nations routinely participate in friendly basketball and volleyball matches when off duty.
Officials confirmed that additional joint training modules are currently being developed to address evolving counterterrorism and regional defense goals.
