Former Senator Shehu Sani, has welcomed the growing security collaboration between Nigeria and the United States, describing it as a necessary step in the country’s efforts to restore peace.
Sani spoke on Wednesday during an interview on The Morning Brief on Channels Television, following the arrival of US troops in Nigeria.
“We can’t continue to fold our arms while terrorists continue to slaughter and kidnap our people, and then close our doors against support from other countries,” he said.
“The fight is our fight, but support is very much needed as long as it is a partnership.”
On Monday, Nigeria’s defence headquarters confirmed that 100 US troops and military equipment had arrived in the country.
Defence spokesman, Samaila Uba said the deployment followed a security agreement between Nigeria and the United States.
The development has sparked debate, with some critics raising concerns about Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
However, the Kaduna lawmaker said while such fears are understandable, the country is already facing serious security challenges.
“I understand their distrust and fears about the US troops on our soil. Unfortunately, our ‘sovereignty’ has already been violated by ‘foreign terrorists’ presence’.”
He added that military cooperation between nations is common worldwide.
Nigeria needs help to fight terror – Shehu Sani welcomes US security support