The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has vehemently denied rumors that the French military is planning to establish a base in Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Monday, Major General Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, clarified that recent online reports alleging the arrival of French soldiers in Maiduguri were completely false.
The reports suggested that French troops had arrived in the northeastern region of Nigeria with the intention of setting up a military base. However, the DHQ dismissed these claims as “fake” and “mischievous.”
According to Major General Buba, the false reports had caused confusion among the public, leading to unnecessary speculation about foreign military involvement in Nigeria.
“This information is totally false and mischievous,” Buba stated in his official response.
The Defence Headquarters also reminded the public that the issue had been previously addressed by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, who had categorically denied the rumors during several media appearances.
In his statement, Buba expressed concern about the growing trend of fake news and urged Nigerians to disregard the ongoing speculations.
“It is clear that these are the antics of mischief makers,” he added.
The DHQ reassured the Nigerian public that the military remains committed to its duty of protecting the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“We will continue to carry out our constitutional responsibilities with professionalism and dedication,” Buba emphasized.
The claims of a French military presence in Nigeria first emerged in recent days, sparking a wave of discussion on social media platforms and news outlets.
Some sources suggested that French soldiers had arrived in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, which has been a focal point in the ongoing fight against terrorism in the northeastern region.
The reports further fueled concerns about possible foreign intervention in Nigeria’s internal security matters.
In response, the DHQ acted swiftly to debunk the rumors, calling on the public to rely on credible sources for information.
General Musa, in his earlier statement, had made it clear that no foreign military personnel had been deployed in Nigeria. He assured Nigerians that the armed forces were fully capable of handling security challenges within the country.
“We are fully committed to defending the sovereignty of Nigeria, and we do not need foreign troops to do so,” Musa had said.
The denial from the Defence Headquarters comes at a time when security issues, particularly in the north and northeast, remain a major concern for Nigerians.
The country has faced significant challenges with insurgency, banditry, and terrorism, leading to calls for increased military support.
However, Nigeria’s government has consistently maintained that foreign military presence is not necessary for addressing the nation’s security challenges.
Nigeria’s military has been actively engaged in operations to counter terrorism, particularly in the northeast, where Boko Haram and other extremist groups continue to operate.
Despite this, the Nigerian government has continued to emphasize the importance of maintaining the country’s independence in handling its security matters.
This includes a focus on strengthening the capabilities of local security forces through training, modern equipment, and strategic partnerships with neighboring countries.
The controversy surrounding the alleged French military base in Nigeria also brings attention to the broader issue of foreign military involvement in Africa.
Over the years, various African countries have seen the establishment of foreign military bases, often as part of international counter-terrorism efforts or peacekeeping missions.
However, the presence of foreign troops in any African country often raises concerns about sovereignty and the potential for exploitation or undue influence.
In the case of Nigeria, the DHQ’s swift response is a clear attempt to quell any fears about foreign intervention in the country’s security matters.
The Nigerian government has repeatedly emphasized that it is capable of managing its security challenges without the need for foreign military involvement.
The Defence Headquarters’ statement is an attempt to reassure the public and maintain confidence in the Nigerian Armed Forces’ ability to secure the country.
For now, Nigerians are urged to disregard the claims of a French military presence and to continue supporting their own military forces as they work to safeguard the nation.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria will remain focused on its primary responsibility to protect and defend Nigeria’s territorial integrity,” Buba concluded.
