Senator Ndume Pushes for US Military Intervention in Borno, Seeks Deployment of 200 American Troops!
Senator Ndume Pushes for US Military Intervention in Borno, Seeks Deployment of 200 American Troops!
Reported by Mustapha Labake Omowumi (Journalist)| Sele Media Africa
Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume has renewed calls for direct United States military involvement in Nigeria’s North-East, urging Washington to deploy 200 troops to his local government area in Borno State and carry out targeted airstrikes against insurgent groups operating in the region.
The lawmaker, who represents Borno South in the Nigerian Senate, made the appeal amid ongoing security concerns linked to extremist factions, including Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
Ndume’s Appeal for External Support
Ndume argued that despite years of counter-insurgency operations by the Nigerian military, terrorist groups continue to exploit difficult terrain and cross-border mobility.
He maintained that limited foreign military assistance particularly precision air power could significantly weaken insurgent networks. According to the senator, a small contingent of American troops working alongside Nigerian forces would enhance intelligence gathering, surveillance, and rapid-response strike capacity needed to secure vulnerable communities.
“Let them deploy about 200 troops to my local government area and carry out airstrikes against the terrorists,” Ndume reportedly said, emphasizing the urgency of protecting civilian populations.
Security Context in North-East Nigeria
Borno State remains the epicentre of Nigeria’s protracted insurgency, which began in 2009 and has displaced millions across the Lake Chad Basin. Although Nigerian authorities report periodic battlefield gains, intermittent attacks on military positions and rural settlements continue to challenge stability in the region.
Security experts note that foreign military involvement in Nigeria’s internal conflict has historically been cautious and politically sensitive. The United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) has previously provided intelligence sharing, training, and logistical assistance but has largely avoided direct combat operations within Nigeria.
Policy and Sovereignty Considerations
Ndume’s proposal is expected to generate debate among policymakers and security stakeholders. Proponents argue that expanded foreign support could accelerate counter-terrorism efforts, while critics warn it may raise sovereignty concerns and provoke domestic political resistance.
The Federal Government has not issued an official response to the senator’s latest remarks. However, Abuja has consistently maintained that Nigeria possesses the capacity to defeat insurgent groups through sustained military operations, improved equipment, and regional collaboration under the Multinational Joint Task Force framework.
Looking Ahead
As insecurity persists in parts of the North-East, Ndume’s renewed appeal reflects mounting frustration among leaders from the affected region. Whether the proposal gains traction in Abuja or Washington remains uncertain, but it underscores the continuing urgency of achieving a durable end to Nigeria’s decade-long insurgency.
Sources: BBC News, Reuters, Premium Times, Channels Television
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