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Defence Headquarters Readies Troops for Potential Action in Niger Republic Amidst ECOWAS Directive.
In the wake of a potential conflict with coup leaders in the Niger Republic, the Nigerian Defence Headquarters has reportedly initiated preparations for the possible mobilization of troops and equipment. This decision comes in response to directives issued by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for troops to remain on standby.
The move was made following an extraordinary summit of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of States and Government, which was convened by President Bola Tinubu and held in Abuja. The summit attracted high-ranking diplomats from entities such as the United Nations, the African Union, and the regional bloc itself.
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The context for this move traces back to the events of July 26, when the junta forced the elected President of Niger, Mohamed Bazoum, out of office.
Reports from Punch, a prominent Nigerian media outlet, suggest that the Nigerian military high command has instructed the service chiefs to compile and submit the necessary war requirements. These include information about personnel numbers, equipment, logistical considerations, and financial costs. This data is intended to be directed towards the Chief of Defence Staff.
This preliminary phase signifies the initial steps in planning to gather the essential human and material resources needed for the planned military intervention in Niger.
A leaked memo detailed that approximately two battalions would be necessary to engage in the conflict against the junta in Niger. A battalion typically comprises 300 to 1,000 soldiers, headed by a lieutenant colonel and further divided into several companies, each led by a major or captain.
A military source, speaking with Punch, revealed that the total number of troops should be at least “10 times more than that of the enemy.” The regional response to the crisis extends beyond Nigeria, as ECOWAS member states including Senegal, Benin, and Ivory Coast are also expected to contribute troops to the standby force.
Reliable military sources disclosed that the Nigerian military authorities have begun activating the requisite mechanisms to execute the resolutions of West African leaders. Although no immediate deployment has occurred, preparations are underway. The Defence Headquarters is set to coordinate the deployment of troops and equipment for the operation in Niger.
The Director of Defence Information, Brig. Gen. Tukur Gusau, sought to reassure Nigerians that the country’s involvement in the military operation in Niger would not impede efforts against internal security challenges. Addressing concerns from security experts that the involvement might hinder ongoing operations against criminal elements within Nigeria, Gusau affirmed that it would not have any negative impact.
Despite repeated requests, the DHQ spokesperson declined to comment on the details of the preparations for the planned military intervention in Niger. The unfolding situation highlights the intricate balance between regional security obligations and domestic security imperatives for Nigeria.
