Nigeria strengthens anti-terrorism cooperation with Benin and Niger
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
Nigeria is increasing military cooperation with Benin and Niger to counter the encroachment of jihadists from the Sahel into Nigeria's northwest, according to Nigerian defence minister, retired general Christopher Musa. He stated that a new sector is being opened to cover the border between Nigeria, Benin Republic, and Niger, facilitating tri-country military collaboration. This initiative aims to prevent groups like the Al-Qaeda-linked Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims JNIM from entering Nigeria through Benin from Burkina Faso. Musa described the plan as a "work in progress" and mentioned his intention to visit Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, despite political differences with these militarily-governed nations. He emphasized the importance of military cooperation to defeat insurgencies in the region. The increased collaboration with Benin includes Beninese troops operating within Nigerian territory with established permission. Nigeria's conflict, traditionally in the northeast, is now seeing a shift within its borders, with concerns about jihadists moving deeper into the south, often leveraging unguarded forest reserves and illegal mining operations. With a presidential election approaching in January, there are fears that voters in conflict-affected areas may be unable to cast their ballots, a possibility Musa acknowledged, stating efforts are underway to ensure safety for voters.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
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