USA
By Olamilekan Abayomi
The United States has approved a $413 million budget for counter-insurgency operations in Nigeria and other African countries in 2026. This funding is part of the US National Defence Authorisation Act, aimed at strengthening security partnerships and addressing growing security concerns in West Africa.
The US Africa Command (AFRICOM) has already delivered critical military supplies to Nigeria, supporting the country’s efforts to combat terrorism and banditry. This move is seen as a demonstration of the US’s commitment to strengthening its security partnership with Nigeria.
The funding will support various security operations, including intelligence sharing, strategic coordination, and military training. Nigeria’s military has been battling Islamist insurgents in the northeast and criminal gangs in the northwest for over 15 years.
Former Senator Shehu Sani has welcomed the US support, describing it as timely and commendable. He urged other countries to emulate the US gesture and provide tangible support in the fight against terrorism and banditry.
The US has been a key partner in Nigeria’s security efforts, providing military aid, training, and equipment. The partnership is seen as crucial in addressing shared security challenges, including terrorism and piracy.
Nigeria’s security challenges are complex, with Boko Haram and other militant groups operating in the region. The US support is expected to enhance Nigeria’s capacity to address these threats.
The funding is also seen as a reflection of growing geopolitical rivalry in Africa, with the US, Russia, and China vying for influence. Security analysts stress that Nigeria’s partnership with the US should be viewed as a collaboration, rather than dominance or repression.
The US support comes as Nigeria continues to grapple with insecurity, highlighting the need for sustained efforts to address the root causes of terrorism and banditry.
