US Airstrikes Expose Weaknesses in Nigeria's Security and Governance, Says Group

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Policy Paper Insights
• Security Challenges in Nigeria
• US Airstrikes and Their Implications
• Recommendations for Improvement

The Arewa Research and Development Project (ARDP) has cautioned that the recent airstrikes by the United States in Sokoto have not only underscored the gravity of Nigeria’s security issues but also the vulnerability of the governance structures responsible for overseeing the application of force in the nation.

In a policy paper published over the weekend, ARDP stated that the airstrikes revealed structural deficiencies in constitutional oversight, strategic coordination, civilian protection, and narrative management.

The organization pointed out that if these issues are not addressed, they could establish precedents that weaken democratic legitimacy and hinder long-term security effectiveness.

“Nigeria’s security landscape has, over the past few decades, been influenced by insurgency, banditry, communal violence, and transnational criminal networks.

“These threats have imposed significant human, economic, and institutional costs, particularly in the northern region, straining the capabilities of domestic security agencies,” the paper remarked.

The group emphasized that US airstrikes aimed at terrorist organizations in north-western Nigeria signify a critical development. Unlike advisory or intelligence support, foreign-executed military actions carry increased legal, political, and strategic consequences.

“Such operations directly intersect with constitutional governance, civil-military relations, and Nigeria’s longstanding sensitivities regarding sovereignty and external intervention,” the report indicated.

ARDP highlighted that the primary challenge is not the cooperation in international security itself but the absence of a coherent and institutionalized framework to govern such collaboration.

The organization called for immediate corrective actions, medium-term reforms, and long-term strategic planning.

The report urged the Presidency, in conjunction with the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, to provide formal legal clarification regarding the constitutional basis, limitations, and oversight arrangements for any foreign military actions on Nigerian territory.

It also recommended that any operations supported by foreign entities should trigger mandatory, time-bound briefings to designated National Assembly committees on defense and national security, thereby reinforcing the legislature’s role in oversight rather than allowing it to remain a passive observer.

Eze Chidiebere Paul

I'm dedicated to creating high-quality content that informs, inspires, and delights. If you have any questions or suggestions, don't hesitate to get in touch. Happy reading!