Security Group Backs FG-US Military Partnership to Fight Banditry, Insurgency
A pro-security advocacy group, the Citizens for Strategic Defence Cooperation (CSDC), has thrown its weight behind the Federal Government’s decision to deepen military collaboration with the United States armed forces describing the move as a strategic step toward tackling Nigeria’s worsening security challenges.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday, the coalition said enhanced cooperation with the US would significantly strengthen Nigeria’s campaign against banditry, insurgency, terrorism and transnational organised crime, particularly in the North-East and North-West regions.
The group maintained that concerns about Nigeria’s sovereignty being undermined by foreign military presence were misplaced, stressing that all engagements are guided by Nigerian law and subject to the authority of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
“Our sovereignty is not for sale, and it has not been compromised,” the statement signed by CSDC Secretary, Abdulmajid Danladi, read.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain in full operational control of all security activities within our territory. Any cooperation with foreign partners is structured, limited and governed by Nigerian law.”
The CSDC noted that Nigeria has, over the years, maintained defence partnerships with several countries, including the United States, particularly in areas such as intelligence sharing, counterterrorism training, logistics support and capacity building.
It argued that deepening ties with the US military would provide advanced technical expertise, surveillance support, and specialised training needed to combat increasingly sophisticated threats posed by insurgent and criminal groups.
According to the coalition, modern security threats are transnational in nature and require coordinated global responses.
It said collaboration with a technologically advanced military such as that of the United States would enhance Nigeria’s operational effectiveness without ceding control of its internal security architecture.
The group also called on political leaders and civil society actors to avoid politicising security partnerships, urging Nigerians to focus on the potential benefits of improved intelligence gathering, precision operations and professional development for Nigerian troops.
CSDC further encouraged transparency from relevant government agencies to ensure public trust and sustained support for international defence cooperation.
The Federal Government has in recent months reiterated its commitment to strengthening bilateral security relationships as part of a broader strategy to restore stability, protect lives and secure critical national assets across the country.
