The Federal Government of Nigeria has dismissed the option of hiring mercenaries to combat terrorism and banditry in northern Nigeria, declaring it an unsustainable approach to tackling insecurity.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, made this known during a joint press conference with China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi at the State House, Abuja, on Thursday. Tuggar reaffirmed the capability of Nigeria’s armed forces to address the nation’s security challenges without resorting to private military companies.
“Private military companies are not the solution to our security challenges,” Tuggar stated, emphasizing the importance of equipping Nigerian security agencies.
Tuggar called for a stronger collaboration with China to domesticate the production of military equipment to eliminate delays caused by foreign procurement processes. He noted that the Federal Government aims to produce both kinetic and non-kinetic military resources locally.
“We need to produce locally to avoid procurement delays. Countries like China remain reliable allies in achieving this goal,” he said.
The minister also highlighted the importance of partnerships that keep external interference and private military companies out of Nigeria’s security framework.
The announcement comes amid renewed terrorist attacks in the Northwest and Northeast, with groups like Lakurawa wreaking havoc. On January 4, suspected terrorists attacked the Army Forward Operation Base in Damboa, Borno State, killing six soldiers. The military retaliated, neutralizing 46 terrorists and destroying their assets.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has since ordered an investigation into the attack and extended his condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers.
In a statement by Presidential Adviser on Information, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu praised the Armed Forces for their swift response, describing their actions as a testament to the nation’s determination to eliminate terrorism and banditry.
“Their sacrifices will never be forgotten,” Tinubu said, urging Nigerians to support the military’s efforts to restore peace and security nationwide.
The Chinese Foreign Minister’s visit also focused on enhancing economic and security collaborations. Tuggar noted that discussions included energy, transportation, agriculture, and petrochemical agreements, building on President Tinubu’s recent state visit to China.
The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to fostering peace and security, with Nigeria playing a leadership role in the region. Tuggar added, “Our partnerships with nations like China ensure that we address challenges effectively, while safeguarding our sovereignty.”
