Nigeria’s security challenges are complex, and a civil society organization is urging a collaborative approach instead of confrontation with the US. The Hope Alive Initiative (HAI), a civil society organization, has made a strong plea to US President Donald Trump. Their message? Collaboration, not confrontation, is the key to solving Nigeria’s security crisis.
This call comes in response to the US designating Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” due to alleged persecution of Christians, coupled with the potential threat of military action. But here’s where it gets controversial… HAI believes that such actions undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty and hinder diplomatic efforts to address its complex security issues effectively.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Ernest Omoarelojie, HAI’s director of media and communications, highlighted the tragic loss of life due to extremist groups. However, he emphasized that this is not solely a religious conflict. Instead, it’s a multifaceted crisis impacting all Nigerians, regardless of their faith.
The statement clarified, “While we acknowledge with profound sorrow the murderous killings by extremist groups and the tragic loss of innocent lives, we must categorically state that the victims cut across all religious and ethnic divides.” It further explained, “This is not a one-dimensional religious conflict but a complex, multidimensional security crisis affecting Christians, Muslims, and adherents of all faiths alike.”
HAI urges President Trump and the US government to work with Nigeria, not against it. They advocate for joint efforts to enhance regional stability, strengthen counter-terrorism measures, and ensure the safety and security of all Nigerians.
The CSO also calls for understanding and cooperation from the global community. They emphasize Nigeria’s commitment to tackling insecurity through various initiatives, including enhanced intelligence sharing, community-based programs, inter-agency collaboration, and interfaith dialogue.
HAI points out that Nigeria, as Africa’s most populous nation, has made significant sacrifices for African decolonization, the emancipation of the black race, and peacekeeping operations worldwide. And this is the part most people miss… They believe Nigeria deserves respect and its rightful place among nations.
HAI also counters claims that Nigeria has been inactive, highlighting the government’s substantial resource allocation and comprehensive initiatives. These include increased security and defense budgets, various military and security operations, and non-kinetic measures to protect all Nigerians, regardless of their religion or ethnicity.
The civil society group calls on the US, the UK, China, the EU, the AU, and ECOWAS to support Nigeria in its fight against insecurity.
What do you think? Do you agree with HAI’s assessment that collaboration is the best approach? Or do you believe a more assertive stance is necessary? Share your thoughts in the comments below!