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The United States has attributed the increase in attacks by terrorist organisations in Nigeria and other African nations to its withdrawal from bases in nearby countries, such as Niger and Chad, highlighting its diminished capacity to track the activities of these violent groups effectively.
During a recent digital press briefing following the “African Chiefs of Defence Conference” in Kenya, Gen. Michael Langley, the Commander of the US Africa Command (AFRICOM), expressed grave concern over the recent violence in Nigeria and other areas of the Sahel.
In recent weeks, Nigeria has seen a notable rise in terrorist incidents across various regions, involving multiple extremist factions. In Borno State in North-east Nigeria, Boko Haram and its offshoot, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), have stepped up their attacks.
Meanwhile, in the central region of Nigeria, particularly in Benue and Plateau states, violence linked to armed herders has also notably increased. These incidents, occurring after a long period of relative calm, have targeted both civilians and members of security forces, resulting in significant casualties and displacement.
However, the top military official of the US indicated that the lack of American intelligence and counterterrorism assistance, which previously played a crucial role in monitoring and disrupting extremist networks throughout the Sahel, may have led to security vulnerabilities that terrorist organisations are now taking advantage of. Gen. Langley noted that the rise in violence is not only alarming, but the harshness of these attacks has also raised concerns.
AFRICOM, established in 2007, oversees US military operations, partnerships, and security collaborations throughout the African continent, with the exception of Egypt.
This military organisation’s primary goal is to bolster African nations’ defence capabilities, assist in humanitarian and disaster relief missions, and combat transnational threats such as terrorism, piracy, and illegal trafficking.
In recent years, AFRICOM has encountered increasing difficulties as African nations reevaluate foreign military alliances amidst intensifying geopolitical competition, particularly from Russia and China. He further mentioned that the US is carefully monitoring the situation and sharing intelligence with the Nigerian military and regional partners involved in security efforts.
