Senator Ndume Sparks Controversy, Pushes For US Troops In Nigeria – Lawmakers Clash

Two members of the House of Representatives have taken opposing positions on Senator Ali Ndume’s call for the deployment of United States troops to Nigeria in response to escalating insecurity in the North-East.

Ndume, speaking on Friday during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, endorsed sending US soldiers to Borno State to assist in the fight against insurgency and banditry.

“The fact that the Americans are now helping us combat insurgency is a welcome development. We have been seeking such support for a long time and have made several attempts to secure it, but without success,” Ndume said. “Now that this opportunity has arisen, we must take advantage of it. I have often stated that a major setback in our fight has been the lack of certain resources, and now America has agreed to provide these resources free of charge.”

Reacting, Babajimi Benson, Chairman of the House Committee on Defence, emphasized that the debate should focus on the roles and capabilities US troops would bring, rather than their numbers.

“The issue is not about more or fewer troops, but the capabilities they offer to support the Nigerian Armed Forces. Currently, we are prioritizing training and technology enablers that will strengthen our forces’ ability to defeat the adversary,” Benson said.

He further questioned critics of foreign support, asking, “Would those opposed prefer the nation continue to suffer from insecurity, terrorism, banditry, and incessant kidnappings? If there is a capacity gap to fill, it should be addressed; otherwise, additional deployment is unnecessary.”

However, Alhassan Rurum, Chairman of the House Committee on Air Force, disagreed, insisting that Nigeria’s military could handle security challenges independently if properly funded and equipped.

“I do not support the deployment of American troops to Nigeria. Our Armed Forces are capable of tackling these security threats; they only need adequate funding and modern equipment,” Rurum said.

Middle Belt Forum Endorses Proposal

The Middle Belt Forum expressed support for Ndume’s suggestion, urging US forces to operate professionally.

Dr. Bitrus Pogu, the forum’s National President, stressed the importance of intelligence and understanding the operational environment.

“Intelligence is crucial, and I believe they are already receiving it. They must carefully study the personnel deployed to assess the situation thoroughly,” Pogu said.

He cautioned that internal compromise within Nigerian security forces could hamper foreign troop operations.

“A foreign military will struggle to operate effectively without proper coordination. Any joint operation with Nigerian soldiers or police requires careful preparation and intelligence sharing,” he added.

Pogu suggested that US forces focus on air support while Nigerian troops handle ground operations.

“For example, our troops could handle ground missions while foreign forces provide air support, leveraging their technological advantage. The ultimate goal is to eliminate terrorists and restore peace. I fully support this approach,” he said.

Spokesman Luka Binniyat also highlighted the urgent need to address terrorism in the Middle Belt.

“If foreign military support can help dismantle terror networks, improve intelligence, and restore confidence to vulnerable communities, it should be welcomed. Protecting our people is paramount,” he said.

ACF Calls for Clarification

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) stated that it had not taken a definitive position, noting that details of the proposed US military involvement remain unclear.

“ACF is concerned that full details of US military operations in Nigeria have not been disclosed,” said Prof. Tukur Muhammad-Baba, the forum’s National Publicity Secretary. “There are legal and constitutional issues to consider, including the National Assembly’s approval, as this involves foreign troops operating on Nigerian soil.”

Other Perspectives

The Forum of Northern Christians, led by Chairman Joseph Hayab, expressed support for the proposal.

“There is nothing wrong with the US assisting Nigeria in combating terrorist attacks. Any partnership that effectively addresses insecurity should be welcomed,” Hayab said.

Meanwhile, the Coalition of Northern Groups expressed a mixed stance.

“Recently, we supported other African countries in maintaining peace. So why can’t we address our security challenges? Technically, we are in support, but at the same time, we have reservations,” said Mohammed Deba, Gombe State Chairman of the coalition.