Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, has refuted reports suggesting that Nigeria is engaging in discussions with the United States to establish a military base in the country, labeling such allegations as “falsehood.”
In a statement, Idris emphasized the government’s awareness of false alarms circulating regarding purported discussions between Nigeria and foreign nations concerning the siting of foreign military bases. He urged the public to disregard these claims entirely.
Idris confirmed that the Federal Government is not engaged in any such discussions with foreign countries and has neither received nor considered any proposals regarding the establishment of foreign military bases in Nigeria.
Reports have surfaced alleging that the US is lobbying Nigeria and other Gulf of Guinea nations for defense agreements, aiming to station troops previously deployed in Mali, Burkina Faso, and the Niger Republic.
These allegations have sparked reactions, including a letter dated May 3, 2024, addressed to President Tinubu and National Assembly leaders by northern elders, urging the government to resist such pressures. Additionally, Nigeria’s Former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bolaji Akinyemi, criticized such a move in an interview with ARISE NEWS.
Idris reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering relations with other countries while emphasizing that President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda prioritizes addressing security issues within Nigeria.
The statement from the Minister of Information serves to clarify the government’s stance on the alleged discussions and underscores its dedication to maintaining sovereignty and addressing internal security challenges.