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Defence Headquarters Denies Alleged Plans for French Military Base in Nigeria
Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters refutes claims about establishing a French military base, emphasizing the country’s sovereignty and independent security policies.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has refuted allegations that the French military intends to set up a base in Nigeria.
This clarification is issued in response to allegations made by human rights activist Mahdi Shehu, who recently criticized the government on social media.
In his post, which included a video, Shehu claimed that French military officers had already reached Borno State as part of initial efforts to establish the base. He voiced concerns about the potential consequences of this development.
The DHQ has firmly rejected these allegations, calling them unfounded and deceptive. The military assured the public that no foreign military base is being set up anywhere in the country.
The post partially stated, “Last week, the Chief of Defence Staff dismissed any intentions to set up French military bases in Nigeria.”
Yesterday, the Chief of Army Staff welcomed the initial group of French soldiers and promptly sent them to Maiduguri to assist Nigeria in combating Boko Haram—the same Boko Haram that was previously reported as decimated and on the run.
Soon, possibly even before the new year, a French military base is expected to appear in Maiduguri. Ostensibly there to combat Boko Haram and explore significant mineral resources, their presence may lead to exploitation and intimidation of local communities—an often-cited consequence of France’s involvement in Africa.
In a statement released on Monday, Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, refuted the claim as false and misleading.
He mentioned, “The Defence Headquarters has become aware of online reports claiming that the first group of French soldiers has arrived in Maiduguri to set up a French military base in North-East Nigeria.”
The Nigerian Armed Forces clearly state that this information is fake, completely false, and misleading. It should be noted that General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, recently addressed this issue in multiple media outlets where he refuted such news and rumors.
Therefore, people are encouraged to ignore these ongoing claims and speculations still present in certain areas. It’s evident that they are the tactics of those attempting to stir trouble.
However, the military will persist in fulfilling its constitutional duties with utmost professionalism and safeguarding our nation’s territorial integrity. Please share this information.