Nigeria’s presidential aide, Daniel Bwala, has emphasized that any military operation by the United States in the country without consent would be diplomatically unacceptable. In an interview with the BBC World Service, Bwala underscored Nigeria’s sovereignty, stressing that foreign intervention in its internal security matters must be collaborative and respectful of its territorial integrity.

The comments come on the heels of US President Donald Trump’s designation of Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” due to alleged persecution of Christians. Trump also threatened to deploy US military resources against terrorist groups targeting Christians in the country. Bwala clarified that a joint operation with Nigeria would be acceptable, but a unilateral invasion without collaboration would be inappropriate, especially given Nigeria’s strategic partnership in combating insecurity.

Bwala’s statement highlighted that unilateral intervention is typically reserved for situations where a government is complicit in a crisis, which he asserted is not the case in Nigeria. The special adviser’s remarks underscore the importance of diplomatic cooperation and respect for sovereignty in addressing security concerns. As Nigeria navigates its complex security landscape, the country’s stance on international cooperation and territorial integrity remains a key aspect of its foreign policy.

The US designation and threat of military action have sparked concern about the potential for foreign intervention in Nigeria’s internal affairs. Bwala’s comments serve as a reminder of the need for collaboration and respect for national sovereignty in addressing security challenges. As the situation unfolds, diplomatic channels and international partnerships will likely play a crucial role in shaping the response to security concerns in Nigeria. The country’s government will need to balance its relationships with international partners while maintaining its commitment to sovereignty and territorial integrity.