FG Open to U.S. Collaboration to End Terrorism

FG Open to U.S. Collaboration to End Terrorism – Idris
…Says constructive engagement, rather than confrontation or misrepresentation, remains the most effective approach
…Revealed that another 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters were being procured to boost Nigeria’s aerial combat capabilities

The Federal Government has reiterated its readiness to strengthen cooperation with the United States and other international partners in its ongoing campaign to eliminate terrorism and insurgency across Nigeria.

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Eko Hot Blog reports that the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made this known at a press conference held on Wednesday in Abuja, where he highlighted the gains of Nigeria’s security collaboration with the U.S. and reaffirmed the Tinubu administration’s commitment to constructive global partnerships.

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Idris disclosed that the collaboration between both countries has already yielded significant results, including the delivery of 12 Super Tucano aircraft to the Nigerian Air Force, which have played a crucial role in the nation’s counter-insurgency operations.

He further revealed that another 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters were being procured to boost Nigeria’s aerial combat capabilities.

“We call on our American friends and partners to approach the Nigerian situation with an understanding of its complex realities,” Idris said. “Nigeria is a vast, multiethnic, and multi-religious nation making significant strides in economic reform and in bolstering its security architecture.”

FG Open to U.S. Collaboration to End Terrorism - Idris

He emphasized that constructive engagement, rather than confrontation or misrepresentation, remains the most effective approach to ensuring peace and stability. According to him, Nigeria welcomes dialogue, cooperation, and support from friendly nations in tackling shared security challenges.

“We warmly invite all our partners, both domestic and international, to join us in this noble endeavour anchored on trust, collaboration, and mutual respect,” the minister stated. “President Tinubu’s administration remains faithful to its duty of securing the nation and safeguarding citizens’ liberty and freedom of religion.”

Idris also addressed what he called a “misreading and misjudging” of Nigeria’s security situation by some U.S. officials, assuring that President Tinubu is engaging diplomatic and political channels to clarify areas of misunderstanding.

He further highlighted ongoing efforts by the federal government to bring terror suspects to justice, citing the prosecution of Khalid Al-Barnawi, the alleged mastermind of the 2011 UN Building bombing in Abuja, and four other accomplices.

The minister also mentioned the prosecution of suspects linked to the June 5, 2022, St. Francis Catholic Church attack in Owo, Ondo State, and those responsible for the Yelwata massacre in Benue State.

“The government of Nigeria remains open and willing to work closely with the U.S. government and other friendly nations to eliminate terrorism on Nigerian soil,” Idris said.