By Zagazola Makama
Nigeria has reiterated the need for stronger regional cooperation among West African countries in the fight against terrorism, urging renewed unity and collaboration across borders.
The Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, made the call during a working visit in Turkey in an interview with TRT World while speaking on the importance of collective security efforts involving neighbouring countries.
He emphasised that Nigeria shares deep historical and cultural ties with countries such as Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali, stressing that unity among them remains critical in addressing the growing threat of terrorism.
According to him, terrorists operate without regard for national boundaries, making it imperative for countries in the region to work together to effectively combat the threat.
“We are brothers and sisters. We must not allow differences to divide us, especially when facing a common enemy that seeks to destroy lives and communities,” he said.
The minister noted that the withdrawal of Niger from the Multinational Joint Task Force had created security gaps, particularly along the extensive border shared with Nigeria.
He said Nigeria and Niger share about 1,500 kilometres of border, warning that lack of coordinated operations could allow terrorist elements to infiltrate and carry out attacks across both countries.
He called for Niger’s return to the joint force, adding that collaboration with other partners such as Cameroon and Chad remained crucial in blocking terrorist movements.
The minister further disclosed that Nigeria continues to maintain bilateral military training and cooperation with Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, despite evolving political dynamics in the region.
He urged all countries involved not to allow political differences to undermine collective security efforts, stressing that sustained cooperation would significantly weaken terrorist networks.
He expressed optimism that continued engagement and unity among regional partners would enhance efforts to restore stability and defeat insurgent groups operating across the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin.
