Former Army Chief Raises Concerns Over U.S. Military Presence in Nigeria
A former Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazau (retd.), has raised concerns about the potential establishment of a U.S. military base in Nigeria. His remarks came during the 7th Annual Lecture organized by the Just Friends Club of Nigeria in Abuja. Dambazau, who also served as a former Minister of Interior, highlighted what he described as a pattern of external interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs.
He pointed out that recent statements from foreign actors, including U.S. politicians and religious leaders, regarding alleged persecution of Christians in Nigeria might be driven by broader strategic interests. Dambazau emphasized that these narratives could be part of a larger effort to influence domestic and regional dynamics.
Dambazau noted that the United States previously operated military bases in Niger Republic for over a decade without effectively addressing the country’s security challenges. He questioned the impact of such presence, stating:
“In the more than ten years of U.S. presence in Niger, where it maintained two military bases, what did the U.S. do to prevent the growth of security challenges?”
He also referenced past criticisms of U.S. involvement in Africa, particularly during the second term of the Trump administration. At that time, some U.S. congressmen accused USAID of funding terrorism in the region. Dambazau suggested that this history may indicate a new push by the U.S. to establish an alternative military base in Nigeria.
He argued that Nigeria, often seen as a country that prioritizes its own interests, may be willing to accommodate such a move. However, he expressed concern over the lack of national cohesion in addressing terrorism and criminal violence within the country.
Terrorism in Nigeria: A Regional Challenge
Dambazau emphasized that insurgency and terrorism in Nigeria are not isolated issues but part of a broader regional insecurity affecting the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin. He stressed that these threats do not target a single religious group.
According to him, both Muslims and Christians have been victims of attacks across the country. He cited past incidents in the North, including the killing of worshippers in mosques, assassinations of Islamic clerics, and attacks on traditional rulers. These examples, he said, illustrate that terrorism in Nigeria affects people of all faiths.
Call for National Unity and Vigilance
Dambazau called for unity among Nigerians in confronting insecurity. He warned against allowing external actors to exploit internal divisions. He stressed that any attempt to create or deepen fractures within the nation would only benefit those with ulterior motives.
He urged the Nigerian government and citizens to remain vigilant and to prioritize national interests over foreign agendas. According to Dambazau, a united front is essential to address the complex security challenges facing the country.
The Role of External Actors
The former army chief also criticized the role of external actors in shaping narratives around Nigeria’s security situation. He suggested that some foreign entities may be using religious and political rhetoric to justify their involvement in the region.
He emphasized that while Nigeria must engage with the international community, it should do so with caution and clarity. Any partnership should be based on mutual respect and shared goals, rather than one-sided exploitation.
Conclusion
Lt.-Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazau’s comments highlight the growing concerns about foreign military presence in Nigeria and the need for national unity. As the country grapples with internal and external security challenges, his call for cohesion and vigilance serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding national sovereignty.