A retired Nigerian military officer, Captain Abdullahi Bakoji, has said that reported efforts by the United States to weaken insurgents are understandable, but cautioned that such actions could pose serious risks if not properly coordinated with Nigerian authorities.
Bakoji, who is also the Kano State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, told DAILY POST that although foreign military intervention may be aimed at reducing the capacity of armed groups, poor coordination could endanger civilians and worsen insecurity in other regions.
“The United States is said to be trying to weaken insurgents, and in that regard, the objective is understandable,” he said. “However, such operations can be risky if they are not fully coordinated with Nigerian security forces.”
He warned that acting without adequate local collaboration could lead to unintended consequences, including the spread of violence to new areas and a breakdown of trust between communities and the government.
“Uncoordinated actions can put civilians at risk, undermine local governance, or even push insurgents into other regions,” Bakoji noted. “For these operations to succeed, the Nigerian government must ensure close cooperation with international partners and prioritise the protection of civilians.”
The retired officer added that while foreign support may offer short-term benefits, Nigeria’s long-term security depends on strengthening its own institutions.
According to him, sustainable peace will be achieved through effective governance, robust security structures and meaningful engagement with local communities, rather than relying solely on external military interventions.
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