Nigerian military reacts to alleged withdrawal of Niger Republic from MNJTF

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Defence Headquarters has said it is not in interest of Nigeria any country to withdrawal from the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) as such withdrawal creates a gap and weakens the strength of the contingent from that country.

The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Markus Kangye said this while dismissing reports that Niger Republic has withdrew from MNJTF

Kangye stated that such a move would have serious security implications while emphasising the critical role of the MNJTF in regional security.

He spoke while addressing the media on Thursday in Abuja.

According to him, efforts must be made to prevent any member state from leaving.

“I believe this issue has been a topic of discussion over the past few months, particularly after some ECOWAS members decided to form an alliance.

“However, the Multinational Joint Task Force was established by the Lake Chad Commission countries to address shared security concerns.

“Nigeria has made significant efforts to ensure the sustainability of this task force.

“However, if any member decides to withdraw, the implications will be significant. The synergy we rely on may no longer exist.

“It is not in our interest for any country to leave because their challenges also affect us. A withdrawal creates a gap and weakens the strength of the contingent from that country.

“Therefore, efforts must be made to prevent such a situation. We will continue to monitor the situation and, as always, provide further updates when necessary,” he said.

He also responded to concerns about the military’s operations, dismissing claims that efforts against terrorists, cattle rustlers, and herders had been scaled back.

He reaffirmed that operations remained ongoing and that high-value targets, such as notorious terrorist leader Bello Turji, were still being pursued.

Addressing concerns about the welfare of troops, Kangye assured the public that soldiers wounded in action were well taken care of.

“The military has provided housing for those who cannot return to active service, and senior officers frequently visit wounded troops both on the frontlines and in hospitals.

“Some soldiers requiring advanced treatment have been flown to countries like Egypt, Turkey, and India,” he said.(NAN)