Military action alone can’t solve insecurity in Nigeria – U.S. envoy

The U.S. Consulate in Lagos has explained that Nigeria’s success does not just depend on its military effectiveness on the battlefield but it requires improvements to the economy, fiscal transparency, violence-free elections, anti-corruption, anti-nepotism efforts, a welcoming business environment for investors and good governance off the battlefield as well.

It reiterated that the United States is Nigeria’s partner of choice, against insecurity, in its efforts to end violent extremism and ensure a more stable, prosperous country for all Nigerians.

The Public Affairs Officer of US Consulate in Lagos, Stephen Ibeli, disclosed this at the security and development summit organized by Nigeria Info 99.3 FM as part of the activities commemorating the 10th anniversary of the media outfit.

He said: “Well-informed citizens make countries stronger, and the exchange of ideas is the foundation for accountable governance and development in addition to the economy.  To this end, the United States will never rest in supporting initiatives that promote press freedom, access to information, and freedom of expression.”

Ibeli emphasized that the summit would provide a valuable forum for frank conversations on critical shared priorities, including security cooperation, humanitarian assistance, and stabilization efforts.

He stressed that without security, it is impossible to have the stability and environment that is conducive to robust economic development and capacity building.

He disclosed that the Super Tucano sale, valued at almost $500 million, remains the United States’ largest foreign military sale in Sub-Saharan Africa.

“The Super Tucanos and associated maintenance, joint training, and exercises symbolize a historic level of cooperation achieved between the U.S. and Nigeria. Beyond the hardware, the Super Tucano platform has brought our two militaries closer to informal training and professional development, including legal training on civilian casualty mitigation and the Law of Armed Conflict.  The Nigerian military has founded a school that brings together pilots, aircrews, and ground personnel to ensure civilian targets are avoided.

“The U.S. government continues to provide technical assistance and train Nigerian security forces to address a wide range of priorities, ranging from stopping banditry, respecting human rights, to more effectively addressing trafficking in persons,” he said.