Former federal lawmaker Shehu Sani has defended the presence of about 100 personnel from the United States Armed Forces in Nigeria, urging critics to remain calm and view the deployment as necessary support in the fight against terrorism.
The troops are reportedly in the country to assist security forces in ongoing counter-terrorism operations, a development that has sparked concerns among some Nigerians, particularly in the North, over possible implications for national sovereignty.
Reacting in a post on X, Sani acknowledged the fears surrounding foreign military presence but argued that the nation’s sovereignty has already been compromised by the activities of foreign terrorist groups operating within its borders.
He noted that military cooperation among nations is common worldwide, stressing that even global powers rely on partnerships to achieve security objectives. According to him, while the fight against terrorism remains Nigeria’s responsibility, international support should not be rejected if it strengthens efforts to protect lives and communities.
Sani maintained that collaboration with foreign partners, when structured as a partnership, could help the country confront persistent threats such as killings and kidnappings more effectively.