The deployment expanded an existing US military presence that had been helping Nigerian forces identify potential terrorist targets through intelligence sharing.
The United States is preparing to withdraw about 200 troops deployed to Nigeria to support the fight against Islamist militants, ending a mission that American officials said produced major intelligence and counterterrorism gains but has not stopped deadly attacks across the country.
The troops were deployed to northeastern Nigeria in February after US President Donald Trump criticised Nigeria over attacks on Christians.
The deployment expanded an existing US military presence that had been helping Nigerian forces identify potential terrorist targets through intelligence sharing.
According to a report by The New York Times, the US military operation included joint intelligence work, training and combat support that culminated in a May operation that killed Abu Bilal al-Minuki, described by US officials as a senior Islamic State leader.
