A Warning from a Security Expert on International Designations and National Unity
A retired Nigerian Army officer and security analyst, Col. Ahmed Usman (rtd), has raised concerns about the recent decision by the United States to label Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) over alleged religious freedom violations. He argues that this move could exacerbate national divisions, empower extremists, and pose a threat to the country’s sovereignty.
Col. Usman made these remarks while presenting a paper titled “Harnessing Intelligence Technology and Local Knowledge to Counter Evolving Security Threats in Nigeria” at the Africa Regional Security Conference, Award and Expo 2025. The event took place on Saturday at the University of Lagos, where he highlighted the potential consequences of foreign interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs.
He criticized the approach taken by U.S. President Donald Trump, who reportedly suggested the possibility of military action to “protect Christians.” According to Col. Usman, such actions are not only misguided but also inflammatory. He argued that this perspective misrepresents the real challenges facing Nigeria.
“Designating Nigeria as a CPC or threatening military action will not save lives—it will endanger them,” he stated. “It could fuel extremist propaganda and undermine the interfaith unity that has kept Nigeria from collapsing into sectarian conflict.”
According to the security expert, the root causes of Nigeria’s insecurity—whether terrorism, banditry, or conflicts between farmers and herders—are linked to economic, social, and environmental pressures rather than any systematic religious persecution.
“When terrorists or bandits attack, they don’t ask their victims’ religion. Nigerians of all faiths suffer the same fate,” he noted.
Col. Usman emphasized that Nigeria is a constitutional democracy that guarantees freedom of religion. Muslims and Christians serve side by side in government and the armed forces, demonstrating the nation’s commitment to pluralism and coexistence.
He warned that any attempt by a foreign power to deploy force in Nigeria without the country’s consent would be a “grave violation of international law and an unacceptable affront to our sovereignty.”
“Nigeria’s Armed Forces are fully capable of defending all Nigerians—Muslim and Christian alike,” he asserted.
Instead of resorting to sanctions and coercive policies, Col. Usman urged the United States to support Nigeria through intelligence sharing, training, and development partnerships. He believes that true support comes from collaboration rather than imposition.
“If Washington truly values peace and religious freedom, it must listen to Nigerians—not speak for them,” he said. “Nigeria needs partners, not patrons. Dialogue, not designation. Cooperation, not coercion.”
Key Points from Col. Usman’s Address
- Col. Usman warned that the U.S. designation of Nigeria as a CPC could deepen national divisions and embolden extremists.
- He argued that Nigeria’s security challenges stem from economic and social factors, not religious persecution.
- The retired officer emphasized that Nigeria is a constitutional democracy with guaranteed freedom of religion.
- Any foreign military intervention in Nigeria without consent would violate international law.
- He called for greater cooperation and dialogue between Nigeria and the U.S., rather than punitive measures.