The United States has announced its plans to relax or completely lift the restrictions imposed on Nigeria regarding military assistance under the Leahy Law. The law prohibits the U.S. Department of State and Department of Defense from providing military assistance to foreign military units that allegedly violate human rights.
U.S. Congressman, Darrel Issah dropped this hint while fielding questions from journalists after meeting with Nigeria’s service chiefs and Ministry of Defense officials on Monday.
This new development, he said, was brought about by the policy of the new military command with regards to the ongoing military operations in the country. He said that the U.S. will provide other forms of support that will boost the military capabilities and through the U.S. agencies in Nigeria, help rebuild and rehabilitate devastated communities.
He said, “We are looking forward to working with the president and the military to rebuild the confidence of the people of Nigeria in the professionalism of the military. To make the military as something that the people can rely on as the nation tries to clear insurgents and protect the civilians; that is important to the new president of Nigeria, our president and it is also important to the congress.”
Ismaila Aliyu, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Defense noted that the U.S. Congressman’s visit is a follow up to Mr. President’s visit to the U.S, stating that President Buhari’s visit has helped rekindled confidence in the relations between the two countries.
Other issues discussed by the officials of the two countries were justice reforms and support for devastated communities among others.
About the Writer: Mary Odunuga is a Writer/Reporter for Connect Nigeria and PR/social media handler for Cribpark. She loves reading, music, watching documentaries, nature and silence. she blogs at (
maryimprints.wordpress.com).
