US: We’re committed to helping Nigeria solve its extraordinary security threats 

The United States has restated its commitment to assist in solving Nigeria’s security challenges which it described as extraordinary.

Speaking during a virtual roundtable with some African journalists, Antony Blinken, US secretary of state, said the country is in “absolute solidarity” with Nigeria in resolving the security threats.

TheCable had reported how Nigeria recorded more than ten security incidents on Monday as killings and attacks continued across the country.

In the north, residents remain at the mercy of Boko Haram insurgents and bandits while security and government agencies are increasingly becoming targets of attacks by gunmen in the south.

Asked if the US would be “ready to provide machinery” to help Nigeria solve its security woes, Blinken said the country would help in various ways including by providing training and equipment.

He said: “It is fair to say that the challenges that Nigeria faces when it comes to security are quite extraordinary – whether it’s terrorism, whether it’s banditry and criminality, whether it’s piracy.

“One, we are in absolute solidarity between us in trying to address these challenges together. And the United States is committed to supporting Nigeria as it meets these challenges. 

“And what that involves primarily is helping Nigeria continue to build its capacity through training, through resources, through information sharing, through equipment, and all of that done, very importantly, with full respect for human rights.

“But it’s also important that we work together, as we are, to address some of the drivers or facilitators of violence and instability that we know those engaged in these activities can sometimes feed on. 

“And that’s why you have to have a comprehensive approach to these challenges. It’s not – the security piece is vitally important, but it’s insufficient, and so economic development, progress, the opportunity is hugely important.”

On Tuesday, President Muhammadu Buhari asked the US to consider relocating the headquarters of its Africa Command (AFRICOM) from Germany as part of efforts to address insecurity in Nigeria and other African nations.