The Federal Government is not interested in hiring mercenaries to fight terror and banditry in the country, said Nigeria’s Foreign Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar. He explained that using private armies is unsustainable.
Tuggar clarified this at a joint news conference with visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Abuja.
“Private military companies, no matter where they are coming from, are not the solution to tackling the country’s security challenges,” Tuggar insisted.
Instead, he called for collaboration with China to produce military equipment locally, avoiding delays in foreign procurement.
The foreign minister highlighted Nigeria’s leadership in promoting peace and security in the region and across the continent. He stressed the importance of partnerships involving Nigeria directly and described China as a reliable ally.
“Nigeria has consistently proved effective in leading other countries in our region, and I would even say on the continent at large, in addressing challenges to peace and security,” Mr Tuggar said.
Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Christopher Musa had previously ruled out mercenaries, saying the military can handle the battle.
New Terrorist Attack, Tinubu Condoles
New terror groups, including Lakurawa, have emerged in recent times, causing havoc in the Northwest and Northeast.
On January 4, suspected terrorists attacked the Army Forward Operation Base in Damboa, Borno State. Troops killed 46 terrorists in retaliation, but at least several soldiers were lost as well.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu commiserated with the military and families of the slain soldiers. He ordered an investigation into the attack.
Tinubu praised the Armed Forces for their swift response and decisive retaliatory strikes.
Tinubu said, “This resolute action by the Army demonstrates the capability and readiness of our military to confront and defeat threats to our nation’s security.”
The president appealed to Nigerians and the media to support the military in restoring peace across the country.
Tinubu said, “Together, we can support our security forces in achieving the peace and security our nation deserves.”
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