The Federal Government of Nigeria has clarified that there have been no discussions with foreign countries regarding the establishment of foreign military bases in Nigeria.
This clarification was made on Monday by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, in response to concerns raised by northern leaders about the potential risks associated with such a move.
In a letter addressed to President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly leaders, the northern elders expressed concerns about lobbying efforts for defence agreements to station troops previously in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.
They questioned the benefits of foreign military bases, particularly noting the lack of effectiveness in curbing terrorism in the Sahel region despite the presence of American troops and intelligence personnel in Niger.
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However, the Minister of Information debunked these claims, stating that the Federal Government has not engaged in any discussions with foreign countries regarding the establishment of military bases in Nigeria, nor has it received any proposals for such.
He urged the public to disregard false alarms and emphasized the government’s commitment to existing foreign cooperation in addressing security challenges.
Similarly, the French Embassy in Nigeria confirmed that there were no discussions planned or undertaken between France and Nigeria regarding the relocation of military bases.
This clarification comes amid tensions between Niger Republic and France following a military coup in the Sahel country, which led to demands for France’s military departure from the region.
Overall, the Federal Government reiterated its stance on maintaining existing foreign cooperation in tackling security challenges while dismissing rumors of discussions regarding foreign military bases in Nigeria.
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