The United States has conducted intelligence-gathering flights over large parts of Nigeria since late November 2025.
US officials confirmed the operations, citing diplomatic sensitivities and ongoing cooperation to address religious violence and terrorism spread.
Contractor-operated aircraft, run by Mississippi-based Tenax Aerospace, typically depart from Accra, Ghana, enter Nigerian airspace, and return to Ghana.
Flight tracking data and statements from current and former officials revealed these missions, marking increased security collaboration.
The flights follow the repositioning of US assets to Ghana after Niger expelled American troops last year.
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Objectives include locating a kidnapped US pilot in Niger and gathering intelligence on groups like Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province.
The Pentagon held productive meetings with Nigerian officials after President Trump’s November warning on violence against Christians.
Nigeria rejects claims of systematic targeting of Christians, describing conflicts as complex security issues affecting multiple communities.
These operations reflect a heightened US focus on regional stability amid Nigeria’s worsening insecurity, including recent attacks and kidnappings.
