Retired army generals, diplomats, and security experts have urged President Bola Tinubu to prioritize fortifying Nigeria’s northern borders in light of potential threats arising from the ongoing crisis with Niger. This call follows allegations from Niger’s military leader, Brigadier General Abdourahmane Tchiani, accusing Nigeria of destabilizing activities, including sponsoring terrorism along shared borders.
Tchiani claimed in a recent interview that France was negotiating with terrorists in Nigeria to undermine Niger’s new leadership, alleging that payments were made to Nigeria to establish a foreign military base. However, these claims were dismissed by Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, who insisted that no foreign military bases exist in Nigeria.
Calls for Strategic Security Measures
Retired General Bashir Adewinbi highlighted the need for a robust contingency plan to shield Nigeria’s border communities from potential fallout. He stressed the importance of securing porous borders, even suggesting a perimeter fence to monitor movements and enhance national security.
“Our borders are too porous, and that is a major danger for the country. We need strict foreign policies and measures to ensure lasting peace,” Adewinbi stated.
Former Commander Brigadier General John Sura also emphasized reinforcing border defenses, deploying troops, and leveraging drones to prevent cross-border threats. He suggested that the accusations from Niger’s junta could serve as propaganda or a prelude to justifying hostile actions against Nigeria.
Sura warned:
“The Nigerien leader might be laying the groundwork for aggression. It is crucial to strengthen our northern borders to protect against militant infiltration and weapon smuggling.”
Dismissal of Allegations
Other experts, including General Ishola Williams (retd.) and former diplomat Sola Abolurin, labeled the allegations baseless and diversionary. Williams described the Nigerien junta’s claims as attempts to deflect from internal challenges and gain local sympathy.
Abolurin emphasized that the Lukarawa terror group, accused of recent attacks, operates from Mali, not Nigeria. He urged caution, warning that strained relations with Niger could affect regional stability.
Local Leaders and Border Residents React
Border community leaders in Sokoto State dismissed the allegations of a French military presence in the area. Residents and traditional leaders from Tangaza, Gudu, and Illela Local Government Areas denied any reports of foreign military camps, attributing the claims to misinformation.
“There is no foreign military presence in our area. Our vigilantes collaborate with Niger’s military to maintain peace and security,” said Alhaji Aminu Aliyu, District Head of Balle.
Residents acknowledged occasional bandit activity but credited the Nigerian Army and local security forces with maintaining stability.
Diplomatic Relations at Stake
Former ambassador Ogbole Amedu-Ode cautioned that mishandling the situation could strain Nigeria-Niger relations. He emphasized the cultural and demographic ties between the two nations, urging the Federal Government to address the issue diplomatically.
Also Amid these tensions, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) dismissed Niger’s claims as unfounded, reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to regional stability.
With the crisis escalating, experts continue to stress the importance of safeguarding Nigeria’s borders and maintaining diplomatic channels to prevent further deterioration in relations with Niger.
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