A retired Nigerian military officer, Captain Abdullahi Bakoji, has cautioned that reported efforts by the United States to weaken insurgents could pose serious risks if not properly coordinated with Nigerian security authorities.
Naijaonpoint reports that Bakoji, who is also the Kano State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, said that although the intention behind foreign military involvement may be well-meaning, poor coordination could worsen insecurity and put civilians in danger.
Reacting to reports of US actions targeting insurgent groups, the retired officer said such efforts could be understood within the context of global security concerns, but warned against unilateral operations.
“The United States try to weaken insurgents as said, then in that sense, the goal is understandable if it is so. However, such operations carry risk if not fully coordinated with Nigerian security forces,” Bakoji said during an interview with Daily Post over the weekend.
According to him, acting without the full cooperation of local authorities could lead to unintended consequences that may undermine ongoing security efforts.
Civilians May Pay The Price
Bakoji stressed that uncoordinated foreign military actions could expose civilians to danger and strain the relationship between communities and the government.
“Uncoordinated actions can endanger civilians, undermine local governance or even push insurgents into other areas,” he warned.
He explained that such displacement of violence could spread insecurity to previously peaceful regions, complicating the country’s already fragile security situation.
The former military officer emphasised that for any foreign-backed security operation to be effective, there must be close collaboration with Nigerian authorities.
“For these operations to be effective, the Nigerian government must ensure close collaboration with international partners to protect civilians,” he said.
He added that transparency and joint planning were critical to maintaining public trust and ensuring that security operations achieve their intended outcomes.
While acknowledging that foreign assistance could offer short-term benefits, Bakoji insisted that lasting peace could only be achieved through internal reforms and stronger institutions.
He noted that Nigeria must prioritise the development of its own security architecture rather than relying heavily on external military interventions.
According to him, “lasting peace will depend more on effective governance, strong security institutions and active engagement with local communities than on external military actions alone.”
Bakoji’s comments come amid renewed debates over foreign involvement in Nigeria’s fight against insurgency and the broader implications for national sovereignty and civilian safety.