Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South Senatorial District, has called on the Federal Government to extend recent U.S.-led military airstrikes to Nigeria’s North-East, citing persistent attacks by Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
Ndume made the call following reports of U.S.-coordinated airstrikes on terrorist targets in north-western Nigeria, urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure that the North-East — the epicentre of Nigeria’s insurgency — is not left out of ongoing counterterrorism operations.
North-East Remains Boko Haram, ISWAP Stronghold
According to the lawmaker, key insurgent enclaves such as the Sambisa Forest, Lake Chad Basin, and the Mandara Mountains continue to serve as operational bases for terrorists responsible for deadly attacks on civilians and security personnel.
He warned that excluding the North-East from intensified military cooperation would further expose vulnerable communities in Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states to violence.
Call for Expanded US–Nigeria Military Cooperation
Ndume urged the Federal Government to deepen collaboration with the United States beyond airstrikes, stressing the need for:
- Advanced intelligence sharing
- Specialised training for Nigerian troops
- Logistics and aerial support, including helicopters
- Enhanced surveillance of terrorist hideouts
He noted that similar joint operations have proven effective in other conflict zones and could significantly degrade insurgent capabilities in the North-East.
Security Budget Must Be Matched With Accountability
While commending the Tinubu administration for increasing defence allocations in the 2026 budget, the senator stressed that funding alone is insufficient without strict accountability and transparency in military spending.
He argued that efficient use of resources would boost troop morale and improve operational success against terror groups.
Terrorism Has No Religion – Ndume
Referencing recent attacks, including assaults on civilian gatherings and places of worship, Ndume emphasised that terrorism is not religious, but a shared national threat requiring decisive action.
Growing Debate Over Foreign Military Involvement
Ndume’s call has reignited debate over foreign military assistance in Nigeria, especially as the Federal Government insists that all joint operations respect Nigeria’s sovereignty and are conducted with official approval.
Security analysts say extending coordinated airstrikes to the North-East could mark a major shift in Nigeria’s counterinsurgency strategy if adopted.
