Former Kaduna Central senator, Shehu Sani, has welcomed the United States’ precision airstrikes on terrorist hideouts in North West Nigeria, describing the action as “conscionable,” while cautioning against excessive dependence on foreign military intervention.
In a statement shared on his verified X handle on Friday, Sani reacted to confirmation by US President Donald Trump that American forces had carried out deadly strikes against Islamic State terrorists operating in the region.
Sani, however, stressed that while external support can be helpful, the primary responsibility for Nigeria’s internal security must rest with the Federal Government.
“If, actually, the military strikes against the terrorist targets in the North Western part of Nigeria were a joint operation with the ‘Nigerian Authorities’ as posted by the US AFRICOM on their verified X handle, then it’s a conscionable action,” he wrote.
He described terrorists in the region as a grave threat, noting that violence has cut across religious lines.
“Terrorists have become cancerous cells in our part of the country. They live by the sword. The narrative that the evil terrorists only target one faith remains absolutely false and misleading,” Sani stated.
The former lawmaker further warned that foreign military assistance cannot replace Nigeria’s own security efforts.
“Again, the ultimate security and peace in our country lies with ourselves and not with the US or any foreign power. They can complementarily or unilaterally strike, but they can’t eternally fight our battles,” he added.
The comments come amid growing debate over international military involvement in Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts, following confirmation of US-led airstrikes carried out in coordination with Nigerian authorities.
