After the airstrike in Sokoto State by the United States (U.S.), Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, a former governor of Sokoto State and the lawmaker representing Sokoto South, has strongly expressed concern over Nigeria’s growing security cooperation with the U.S., particularly in light of recent counterterrorism actions that involved U.S. military involvement on Nigerian soil. His comments, delivered in a televised interview and official statements this weekend, highlight broader debate within Nigeria about foreign military participation in domestic security matters.
Speaking on Arise Television on Saturday amid widespread reports of a U.S., Nigeria coordinated counterterrorism airstrike in Sokoto State, Tambuwal cautioned that foreign military interventions have historically yielded “mixed” or limited results in other parts of the world.
“If we go by the history of such operations as carried out by the U.S. in some parts of the world, I am very, very concerned. We must be very circumspect,” Tambuwal said.
He added, “And if the history is anything to go by, it has not been able to effectively achieve much in some of the areas that they carried out such collaborative efforts.”
Moreover, both governments have said the action was undertaken as part of greater security cooperation aimed at degrading Islamist militant groups, such as affiliates of the Islamic State, in the region.
Additionally, Tambuwal acknowledged the specific security context behind these efforts, referencing information indicating that the recent operation targeted what Nigerian authorities describe as an enclave linked to the Lakurawa terrorist group in Tangaza Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
“The target was an enclave in Tangaza Local Government Area of Sokoto State… we carried out joint operations with the DSS, Army, and other security forces,” he recalled, recounting his experience with past coordinated efforts against the militants during his tenure as governor.
However, the senator stressed that such cooperation must not be taken at face value without careful oversight.
“Help may come from unexpected quarters. What we need to do is to make sure that no hidden agenda is pursued in the pursuit of this fight against terrorism.”
In his comments, Tambuwal strongly rejected interpretations that frame foreign involvement as part of a religious or ethnic agenda, a sensitive topic in Nigeria’s diverse society.
“This is not a religious war, this is not an ethnic war. This is about our country and securing our country,” he said, emphasising that the fight against terror should not divide Nigerians along sectarian lines.
He echoed this theme separately on social media, urging communities in Sokoto South to remain calm and law-abiding while authorities provide clarity on the operation’s details.
“Counterterrorism operations are targeted at criminal and terrorist elements who threaten our collective safety… not at innocent civilians,” he added, stressing that “protection of civilian lives remains paramount and central to all legitimate security operations.”
Despite his caution, Tambuwal commended Nigerian troops and security personnel for their dedication and professionalism, often under challenging conditions and in collaboration with foreign partners.
“Their sacrifice and commitment to restoring peace and stability deserve our full support and cooperation,” he said, while urging community leaders and residents to engage constructively with security agencies.
He also warned against misinformation that could fuel fear or tension in affected communities, calling on leaders to share credible information and avoid unfounded rumours.
Tambuwal’s cautious stance highlights a broader national dialogue as Nigerians weigh the benefits and risks of deepening security partnerships with the United States. These discussions are unfolding in the context of recent operations, including airstrikes authorised by both governments that have drawn mixed reactions from political leaders, civil society and the public alike.
Analysts say Nigeria’s security situation marked by persistent insurgency and militant violence across multiple regions, continues to challenge policymakers. Some argue that international cooperation is necessary, while others, like Tambuwal, urge vigilance to ensure Nigeria’s sovereignty and long-term interests are protected.
