The United States has ruled out sending troops to Nigeria despite rising insecurity and renewed scrutiny over religious freedom. Washington insists that its designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) is meant to drive reforms through diplomatic engagement, not military action.
A bipartisan U.S. Congressional delegation, led by Congressman Bill Huizenga and including Reps. Michael Baumgartner, Keith Self, and Jefferson Shreve, made the remarks during a press conference in Abuja after meetings with Nigerian officials, religious leaders, civil society groups, and private sector stakeholders. “Nigeria does need help, but that does not mean U.S. troops,” Huizenga said. “The CPC designation is a tool to motivate action, not a prelude to military deployment.”
The lawmakers highlighted that the designation reflects persistent vi%lence across religious lines, particularly in Middle Belt states. They distinguished between terr+rism in the North-East, linked to Boko Haram and ISWAP, and communal or religiously motivated att@cks in states such as Plateau and Benue. “There are different regional realities,” one lawmaker said. “What works in Borno State may not work in Plateau or Benue.”
U.S. officials stressed that Nigeria’s CPC status is not permanent and will be reviewed based on measurable progress in reducing vi%lence and improving religious freedom. They emphasized that the move is meant to encourage accountability and reforms rather than punish Nigeria, describing it as “difficult but honest engagement between partners.”
While ruling out military action, the delegation expressed support for non-military initiatives including humanitarian assistance, diplomatic cooperation, and capacity-building, calling it “putting shoes on the ground, not boots.” They warned that continued instability in Nigeria has regional and global implications and said they would brief Congress on their findings.
About The Author
More Stories
Rivers: The Grounds Of Impeachment Are Difficult To Comprehend – Fmr NBA President, Agbakoba
Waiting game, as FG suspends rollout of new tax laws
Akwa Ibom Lawmakers Propose 10-Year Jail Term for Women Who Have Affairs With Married Men