The Defense Headquarters (DHQ) said that all activities involving US forces are being done with complete regard for Nigeria’s sovereignty and in line with existing bilateral agreements.
This comes after claims in the media that US forces are in Nigeria to confront terrorists.
Major General Samaila Uba, the Director of Defense Information, said in a statement yesterday that Nigeria has had a long-term and organized security collaboration with the United States.
The DHQ says that the military cooperation between Nigeria and the United States is based on mutual respect and focuses on building capacity, professional military education, sharing intelligence, providing logistical support, and having strategic conversations to deal with common security issues like terrorism and threats that cross national borders.
It said, “All engagements are done with full respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty and in line with existing bilateral frameworks.”
The military high command said that as part of this continuous relationship, a recent two-day meeting of the high-level Working Group brought together senior U.S. government officials and their Nigerian counterparts at the Office of the National Security Adviser.
This encounter came after earlier meetings in the United States that showed a mature, trust-based relationship focused on getting things done.
It added that during these meetings, there were talks about ideas to make existing cooperation mechanisms stronger, better coordination, and make sure that everyone is held accountable for their actions in the fight against violent threats while still protecting citizens and keeping communities safe.
The DHQ responded, “The proposals are still being looked at by the right Nigerian authorities.”
It said again that Nigeria’s dealings with other countries are always based on its own interests, measurable results, and the safeguarding of its sovereignty.
The military high command told people that Nigeria’s defense collaborations are open, based on policy, and in line with the Constitution.
It said, “The Armed Forces of Nigeria are still fully committed to protecting the country’s territorial integrity while working with trustworthy partners in ways that make Nigeria’s security stronger without giving up its independence.”
About the Author
