Nigeria’s defence ties with US strategic, measured – Group

A pro-security advocacy group, Citizens for Strategic Defence Cooperation (CSDC) has endorsed the Federal Government’s decision to deepen military collaboration with the U.S. Armed Forces.

Secretary General of CSDC, Abdulmajid Danladi, said this in a statement on Sunday in Abuja.

Danladi noted that the collaboration never affected Nigeria’s sovereignty.

According to him, Nigeria’s sovereignty remained fully intact, in spite of the defence cooperation with the U.S.

He described the arrangement as a “measured and strategic partnership” aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s campaign against terrorism, insurgency and transnational crime.

The CSDC boss urged Nigerians to base public discourse on facts rather than emotion.

“Our sovereignty is not for sale and it has not been compromised.

“The armed forces of Nigeria remain in full operational control of all security activities within our territory.

“Any cooperation with foreign partners is structured, limited and governed by Nigerian law,” he stated.

According to him, Nigeria had long maintained defence ties with friendly nations, particularly in training, intelligence sharing and capacity building.

He stressed that the evolving security landscape demanded coordinated responses.

According to him, enhanced cooperation with the United States Department of Defense, will provide access to advanced training, intelligence technology and operational best practices.

“Modern warfare is technology-driven. Intelligence gathering, surveillance and counter-terror strategies are globalised.

”Refusing to cooperate with international allies will isolate Nigeria at a time when collaboration is essential,” he said.

Danladi commended the leadership of the Nigerian Armed Forces under the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede on the development.

He described the initiative as forward-looking and consistent with Nigeria’s longstanding diplomatic and security relations with the U.S.

Danladi stressed that the presence of foreign military personnel, where applicable, did not equate to foreign control.

“There is a clear difference between cooperation and occupation.

“Nigeria is not hosting foreign bases that override its authority. What exists is structured engagement designed to improve the capabilities of our own troops,” he said.

He then urged the Federal Government to sustain transparency and ensure that all defence partnerships aligned with constitutional provisions and Nigeria’s foreign policy principles.

(NAN)