The planned withdrawal of most United States military personnel from a joint counterterrorism operation in Nigeria has sparked fresh concerns over the country’s security architecture, with the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) warning that terrorist groups could exploit the development to stage a resurgence unless Nigerian authorities act swiftly.
The rights group said the drawdown of American forces comes at a delicate moment when insurgent attacks, kidnappings and assaults on rural communities remain a major security challenge despite recent military gains.
In a statement issued on Friday, HURIWA cautioned that any reduction in military pressure could provide extremist groups with the opportunity to regroup, recruit fighters and expand their operations, particularly in communities that have suffered repeated attacks over the years.
The association aligned itself with recent concerns expressed by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory, as well as the Ecumenical Synods of Bishops, Archbishops, Apostles and Senior Clergy, arguing that reports from affected communities contradict claims that attacks on Christians have significantly diminished.
HURIWA acknowledged that recent international counterterrorism operations had neutralised some insurgent commanders and disrupted terrorist networks but maintained that such tactical successes have yet to translate into lasting security for many Nigerians.
The group specifically referenced the announcement by the Commander of U.S. Air Forces in Europe–Air Forces Africa, General Dagvin R.M. Anderson, that most American troops participating in the operation had been withdrawn, describing the move as a development that should compel Nigeria to strengthen, rather than scale back, its security response.
According to HURIWA, intelligence-sharing arrangements remain valuable but cannot substitute for sustained military operations, rapid-response capabilities, aerial surveillance and effective protection of civilians.
The association urged President Bola Tinubu to reinforce troop deployments in vulnerable areas and intensify intelligence-led operations to prevent insurgents from taking advantage of the changing security landscape.
It also appealed to the United States and other international partners to sustain support for Nigeria through intelligence cooperation, logistics, specialised training, technology transfer and diplomatic engagement, warning that a premature sense of victory over terrorism could undermine hard-won gains.
HURIWA stressed that protecting all Nigerians, irrespective of religion, ethnicity or location, remains the constitutional responsibility of government, adding that sustained pressure on violent extremist groups is essential to preventing another wave of deadly attacks.