ABUJA, Nigeria (FN) — Nigerian defense officials have acknowledged that the country lacks the capacity to repel a direct military assault from the United States, emphasizing instead the importance of diplomatic engagement and regional security partnerships.
Speaking during a strategic dialogue in Abuja, Minister of State for Defense Bello Mohammed Matawalle said Nigeria’s priority is strengthening internal security and counterterrorism operations. He urged the United States to expand its support through intelligence sharing, equipment transfers, and joint training programs.
The meeting, held with Major General Garrick Harmon of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), focused on enhancing bilateral defense cooperation. Matawalle stressed that Nigeria’s security challenges—particularly in the northeast—require sustained international collaboration, not confrontation.
“Nigeria is not preparing for war with any country, least of all the United States,” Matawalle said. “Our focus is on peace, stability, and protecting our citizens from terrorism and organized crime.”
The comments came in response to remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump, who recently accused Nigeria of failing to protect Christian communities and hinted at possible military intervention. Nigerian officials rejected the claims, calling them “misinformed and inflammatory.”
“Nigeria is a secular nation,” said presidential spokesperson Ajuri Ngelale. “Our armed forces protect all citizens regardless of religion. We will not be drawn into divisive rhetoric that undermines our sovereignty.”
Security analysts noted that Nigeria’s military, while one of the largest in Africa, is structured primarily for internal operations and peacekeeping missions. Its ability to counter a full-scale foreign invasion, especially from a superpower like the United States, remains limited.
The Nigerian Air Force and Navy have made strides in modernization, but officials concede that gaps in surveillance, logistics, and advanced weaponry persist. Defense spending, though increasing, is dwarfed by the U.S. military budget.
Despite tensions, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to cooperation. AFRICOM’s Harmon praised Nigeria’s role in regional stability and counterterrorism, calling it “a vital partner in West Africa.”
Matawalle concluded the meeting by reiterating Nigeria’s preference for diplomacy. “We welcome assistance, not aggression,” he said. “Our relationship with the United States must be built on mutual respect and shared goals.”
