Today’s Congressional hearing in Washington DC marks a very important moment in the international conversation about insecurity in Nigeria. For the first time in a long while we witnessed a constructive and informed discussion in the U.S. Congress. Members from both major parties spoke passionately about the situation in Nigeria. They acknowledged the seriousness of terrorism and the human suffering it has caused in different parts of our country. They also recognized the complexity of the conflict and the potential consequences of any foreign action.
What stood out clearly for me, was the strong rejection of direct military intervention in Nigeria. Instead they promoted a more rational and responsible partnership between the Nigerian government and the U.S. government. They recommended a joint approach to assess Nigeria’s current capacity to deal with terrorism. They encouraged the U.S. to provide intelligence support and work closely with Nigerian security forces in identifying isolating arresting or eliminating the terrorists who have caused havoc in different regions of our country. This includes Boko Haram attacks in the Northeast. This includes the criminal activities of bandits in the Northwest and North Central. This includes violent groups in the Southeast and Southwest. Nigerians have suffered regardless of religion or tribe and every Nigerian deserves safety and dignity. This new direction is a very welcome development. It is far better than the past reckless and impulsive calls for aggressive military action in Nigeria that would have damaged our sovereignty and put civilian lives at great risk. Today we saw a wiser approach that respects Nigeria and focuses on what actually works. This is a major win for diplomacy and for those who believe in smart collaboration rather than destructive intervention.
The Tinubu administration must seize this opportunity. Nigeria should move quickly to strengthen cooperation with the U.S. and also with European partners. We must also recognize another important message that emerged from today’s hearing which is the urgent need to appoint ambassadors in key countries across the world. Nigeria’s reputation has suffered from misinformation and disinformation. We need strong capable representatives who can stand for Nigeria, defend our interests and engage with global leaders to restore confidence in our nation’s future.
This is not a time for political rewards. It is a time to appoint people who are qualified. People who will represent Nigeria with honour. People who will work tirelessly to create a safer and more prosperous future for all Nigerians.
To those at home who celebrated the possibility of a foreign attack on our own country I ask you to reflect. You may feel angry or frustrated but it is important to step back and think carefully. Foreign bombing will not fix Nigeria. It will destroy lives and deepen our suffering. This moment offers a better path. A chance for collaboration and intelligence support to help us bring peace and stability to every corner of our country.
If we take this opportunity seriously and if we work with the right partners this could be a turning point. A moment when Nigeria moves forward with dignity strength and unity. A moment when our government is supported to protect our people and secure our sovereignty. A moment when Nigeria begins to rise again. #Nigeriafirst

By Dr. Adam Abba-Aji.