In a bold statement resonating with Nigeria’s ongoing struggle against terrorism and banditry, renowned human rights activist and former Senator Shehu Sani has shared his stance on the nation’s pressing defense needs. Through his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, Sani highlighted the challenges Nigeria faces in sourcing adequate weaponry to combat security threats on multiple fronts, including terrorism and banditry.
Sani voiced concerns over the current dependency on foreign powers for military supplies, pointing out the obstacles Nigeria encounters when dealing with major arms exporters like the United States, Russia, and China. He explained that while Russia and China offer cost-effective options, sourcing arms from these countries risks sparking diplomatic tensions with the United States. On the other hand, opting for high-cost weapons from the U.S. brings its own set of complications.According to Sani, purchasing arms from the U.S. comes with “stringent conditions, limitations, and restrictions,” which hinder Nigeria’s military forces in critical combat scenarios. He likened the situation to “a hiring service,” with Nigeria’s hands effectively tied by conditions attached to these foreign-made weapons.
“This is a time for Nigeria to consider developing its own weapons to fight our battles,” Sani emphasized. His call to action points toward a future where Nigeria can independently equip its forces, free from the influence of foreign policies and agendas. Developing indigenous defense technology, he suggests, would not only enhance military autonomy but also strengthen the country’s position in the global defense landscape.
Senator Sani’s remarks underscore the urgency for Nigeria to invest in self-reliant defense initiatives. As Nigeria battles insurgents and criminal networks, the need for an empowered, unrestricted military has never been more apparent.
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