The debate around the US military partnership Nigeria is growing after US Congressman Riley M. Moore outlined two major conditions the Nigerian government must fulfill before any security cooperation can begin. Speaking during a Fox News interview, Moore said Nigeria must first demonstrate concrete steps in key areas of national security and justice.
Condition 1: Release of Sunday Jackson
Moore emphasized that the first requirement for a US military partnership with Nigeria is the release of Sunday Jackson, a farmer sentenced to death after killing a herdsman he said invaded his farm.
According to Moore, Jackson’s case must be resolved before any cooperation can move forward.
“One of the first steps is releasing Sunday Jackson,” he told Fox News, arguing that the situation raises human-rights concerns that the US government cannot ignore.
Condition 2: Plan to Disarm Violent Fulani Militants
The lawmaker said the second condition for the US military partnership Nigeria seeks is for the government to present a credible plan to disarm armed Fulani militants behind attacks in the Middle Belt.
Moore said the US cannot partner militarily with Nigeria unless the government demonstrates a concrete strategy to curb killings linked to armed militant groups.
“Nigeria must work with us on a plan to disarm radical Fulani militants in the Middle Belt,” he stated.
Why These Conditions Matter
Moore stated that the US cannot commit to helping Nigeria fight insecurity unless these issues are addressed. He argued that the Nigerian government must show it is taking internal security reforms seriously.
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Reactions From Nigeria and Abroad
The comments have already triggered debate across Nigerian social media and political circles. Supporters of Jackson view the US congressman’s position as a welcome intervention, while others criticize it as interference in judicial matters.
The Nigerian government has not officially responded to Moore’s conditions.
