The Republican Mayor of Blanco City in Texas, United States, Mike Arnold, has criticised Nigeria for rejecting U.S. comments on terrorism while still seeking financial aid from the country.
Arnold made the remarks on Monday during an interview on Prime Time, a current affairs programme aired on Nigeria’s Arise Television.
Reacting to Nigeria’s position on foreign involvement in its internal security matters, Arnold expressed frustration, questioning why a country as resource-rich as Nigeria still relies heavily on external assistance.
“I don’t understand why a nation that is mineral rich as Nigeria has to go and beg for help to save her own people,” he said.
He noted that Nigeria has the potential and natural resources to support its citizens and ensure stability without depending on foreign donors.
“Nigeria has plenty of resources to help her people get at least something where they can help get stability,” Arnold stated.
He also raised concern about the treatment of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the country, especially in areas affected by terrorism and communal violence.
“Displaced people are denied stability, their homes are bulldozed with no warning. It is horrific,” he added.
The mayor questioned Nigeria’s unwillingness to accept international commentary on its security issues while continuing to request financial aid from those same countries.
“You don’t want America to come here and speak on terrorism, but you want their money. That does not make sense to me whatsoever,” Arnold said.
His comments come amid ongoing concerns about insecurity in parts of Nigeria, particularly in the North-East, where insurgent groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP have displaced millions and caused widespread destruction.
Nigeria has often pushed back against what it sees as foreign interference in its internal affairs, especially from Western nations. However, the country remains a top recipient of foreign aid, including U.S. humanitarian support for displaced persons and victims of conflict.
