Shehu Sani Calls For US Military Backing In Nigeria’s Fight Against Terrorism

Former Kaduna Central senator Shehu Sani has welcomed the United States’ security partnership with Nigeria, calling it a crucial step in the nation’s ongoing fight against terrorism.

Sani made the comments on Wednesday during an interview on The Morning Brief, following the arrival of US troops in Nigeria.

He said, “We cannot continue to fold our arms while terrorists slaughter and kidnap our people, and then refuse support from other countries. The fight is ours, but international support is essential as long as it is a partnership.”

On Monday, the Defence Headquarters confirmed that approximately 100 US military personnel and equipment had arrived in Nigeria.

Maj. Gen. Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, explained that the deployment was part of a bilateral security agreement. “The collaboration will provide access to specialised technical capabilities to strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to deter terrorist threats and protect vulnerable communities across the country,” he stated, noting that US personnel are serving in advisory and training roles.

The development has sparked debate, with some expressing concerns over Nigeria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

Sani acknowledged these fears but emphasized that the country faces a more immediate security threat.

He said, “I have read the strong statements from those opposed to a foreign military presence in our country. I share their views on protecting our sovereignty. I understand their distrust of US troops on our soil. However, our sovereignty has already been compromised by the presence of foreign terrorists.”

He added that international military cooperation is standard practice worldwide. “No military operates in isolation. Even superpowers work with other nations to achieve their objectives,” Sani explained.

The arrival of US troops comes months after former President Donald Trump redesignated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern over alleged killings of Christians, claims Nigerian authorities have denied. In December, the United States conducted strikes targeting terrorist groups in Nigeria, described by both governments as jointly coordinated operations.