Rejection of Foreign Military Intervention in Nigeria
While there is widespread concern over the killings of Christians, Muslims, and other innocent Nigerians, many Nigerians in the United States have firmly rejected the idea of foreign military intervention on Nigerian soil. This stance was clearly articulated by the Organisation for the Advancement of Nigerians (OAN) and 19 other Nigerian organizations in the U.S.
A statement released on Wednesday in New York by Temi Aregbesola, president of OAN, and the other organizations strongly opposed any suggestion of U.S. military involvement. The statement emphasized that Nigeria is a sovereign nation and that the protection of its citizens should remain under the control of the Nigerian government, not foreign powers.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that U.S. President Donald Trump had recently threatened military action in Nigeria after labeling it a “Country of Particular Concern” due to alleged mass killings of Christians by terrorists. In response, the Nigerian organizations reiterated their position:
“While we recognize and join in the urgent concern over the killings of Christians, Muslims, and other innocent Nigerians, we unequivocally reject the idea of foreign military intervention on Nigerian soil.”
They stressed that the Nigerian government must take full responsibility for safeguarding its people, rather than relying on external forces. The organizations also expressed disappointment with the inability of successive Nigerian administrations to halt the escalation of violence targeting communities, indigenous groups, and civilians across the country.
The statement highlighted serious security lapses and a lack of accountability, noting that the pattern of killings and displacement in several states indicates systemic issues. The organizations called on the federal government to immediately take action to stop the violence and strengthen protection for all citizens, particularly vulnerable communities.
They urged the government to deploy state and federal resources in coordination with local authorities to ensure the safety of all Nigerians. Additionally, they encouraged Nigeria to collaborate with the U.S. and international partners to share intelligence, training, technology, and logistical support.
However, the organizations emphasized that Nigeria must safeguard its national sovereignty and avoid allowing foreign troops on its soil. They also called for a transparent public audit of security operations, mechanisms for holding perpetrators accountable, and an update on the status of victims and survivors of sectarian violence.
Key demands included the development of a national strategy for protecting religious and ethnic minorities, ensuring that Nigeria does not continue to face allegations of “systematic, ongoing, egregious violations of religious freedom.” They also urged the government to engage civil society, faith-based organizations, and diaspora communities in the formulation and implementation of restoration and reconciliation programs for affected communities.
The organizations cautioned that while the designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” signals international scrutiny, it should not be used to justify militarization or the infringement of Nigerian sovereignty. They called on the leadership of Nigeria to act decisively, not wait for external threats to force action.
“Nigeria’s designation as a ‘Country of Particular Concern’ should serve as a wake-up call, not an excuse for external interference.”
They emphasized the need for the government to act responsibly to prevent further deterioration of peace and national unity. OAN and partner organizations stand for a peaceful, just, and secure Nigeria where every citizen, regardless of religion or background, can live free from fear.
Partner Organizations
The OAN partner organizations include a wide range of groups such as the Association of Nigerian Physicians in America, the Olumo Progressive Association Inc., and the Nigerian Lawyers Association, USA. Other members include the Nigerian-American Muslims Integrated Communities, Christ Apostolic Church, First in the Americas, Nigerian Independence Day Committee, and the Akwa Ibom State Association.
Additional organizations are the Nigerian Nurses Association, the Regional Council of Nigerian Muslims, Celestial Church of Christ, Cherubim and Seraphim Church Movement, and Nurudeen Islamic Charity Organisation. The Zumunta Association USA, Inc., Your Black Matters, Inc., Absolute Faith in Jesus Christ International Church, Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO), New Jersey, Under Da Rock and Big Moose Entertainments, Eko Club International, and Egbe Omo Yoruba are also among the partners.
Background of OAN
NAN reports that OAN was founded in 1989 when Nigeria and Nigerians in the U.S. were suffering from negative stereotypes in the American media. From its inception, OAN dedicated itself to fighting these stereotypes, enhancing the image of Nigeria and Nigerians in the U.S., and addressing the negative portrayals in the American media.