A former Nigerian Army spokesperson, Major General John Enenche (retd.), has strongly endorsed recent U.S. military airstrikes against terrorist targets in Sokoto State, framing the intervention as a critical turning point in Nigeria's long-standing security war.
In a televised interview, Enenche argued that the precision strikes demonstrate serious international commitment and are a necessary response to a two-decade crisis that has cost countless lives and crippled the economy.
“This development is a welcome one,” Enenche stated. “We have tried dialogue, diplomacy, and other means with terrorists and bandits, yet the crisis has persisted. The tangible support from a power like the United States signals the beginning of positive change.”
The retired general, who served in the affected regions over twenty years ago, emphasized that the threat extends beyond military concerns to human, economic, and national security.
He dismissed widespread concerns about sovereignty and prolonged foreign entanglement, labeling opposition as misguided or self-serving.
“Those projecting fear and pessimism are enemies of this country,” Enenche said. “International cooperation is not new to us. Where some see a negative, we must see the positive: a chance to finally gain the upper hand.”
While praising the U.S. for advanced intelligence and air capabilities, Enenche stressed that ultimate responsibility rests with Nigeria. He called for robust ground operations supported by state and local governments, a crackdown on corruption within security agencies, and greater investment in surveillance technology like drones.
“Foreign partners may provide air support, but we must do the work on the ground. There must be no sacred cows; anyone complicit in sabotaging security must be dealt with decisively,” he added.
Enenche concluded that saving Nigerian lives must be the paramount concern, outweighing any diplomatic image. He urged national unity against both external terrorists and internal collaborators.
This defense comes amid significant domestic criticism of the U.S. action. Notably, prominent Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has publicly called on President Bola Tinubu to suspend military cooperation with the U.S., warning it could escalate violence and undermine national sovereignty. Gumi's previous comments have often sparked controversy for their perceived sympathy towards armed groups.
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