The United States has reportedly requested permission from the Nigerian government to establish a drone refuelling station within Nigeria, as part of efforts to deepen security and defence cooperation in West Africa.
According to multiple reports, the proposed facility would support U.S. surveillance and strike-capable drones that currently operate out of Accra, Ghana. The refuelling station would enable these unmanned aerial vehicles to extend their operational range and duration, including missions conducted within or around Nigerian airspace.
Sources familiar with the matter say discussions between both countries are at an advanced stage, although no formal agreement has been publicly announced. The talks are believed to be focused on logistics, operational scope, legal frameworks, and oversight mechanisms that would govern the presence and use of the facility.
The development has generated renewed public debate over issues of national sovereignty, regional security, and the expanding footprint of the United States military across West Africa. While supporters argue that the move could strengthen intelligence-sharing and counterterrorism efforts, critics warn that foreign military installations may undermine Nigeria’s autonomy and draw the country deeper into global power rivalries.
Nigeria has faced persistent security challenges in recent years, including insurgency in the North-East, banditry and kidnappings in the North-West, and piracy in the Gulf of Guinea. The United States has long partnered with Nigeria on security initiatives, providing training, intelligence support, and military equipment aimed at addressing these threats.
However, the possibility of hosting a U.S. drone refuelling station has raised concerns among analysts and civil society groups about transparency, accountability, and the potential long-term implications for regional stability. Questions have also been raised about how such an arrangement would align with Nigeria’s defence policies and its role as a leading power in West Africa.
As of now, Nigerian authorities have not officially confirmed or denied the reports. Observers say any final decision is likely to attract intense scrutiny from lawmakers, security experts, and the general public, given the sensitive nature of foreign military cooperation on Nigerian soil.

Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan is reportedly stranded in Guinea-Bissau following the military’s announcement of a takeover on Tuesday.

Jonathan, who travelled to the country as part of an international election observation mission, was expected to oversee the release of official results before the unexpected shift in power disrupted all movement. Sources say he and other foreign observers are currently unable to leave as security restrictions tighten across the capital.

The situation has sparked concern among regional stakeholders, with diplomatic channels said to be monitoring developments closely. So far, neither Jonathan nor Nigerian authorities have issued an official statement on his safety or plans to return.

The unfolding political tension in Guinea-Bissau continues to draw global attention, especially as the fate of the election results remains unclear.

China has restated its readiness to continue supporting Nigeria in the ongoing fight against terrorism and efforts to maintain national stability.

Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, gave the assurance after a meeting with the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, on Thursday.

In a statement shared via X, the ambassador said China “firmly supports” the Nigerian government’s development strategies that align with the country’s realities and long-term goals.

Dunhai also emphasized that China remains opposed to any external interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs “under the pretext of religion and human rights.”

The meeting further strengthened diplomatic ties between both nations, with discussions centered on security collaboration and sustainable development.