Ndume Calls for US Military Base in Mandara Mountains to Intensify Fight Against Boko Haram

Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, representing Borno South Senatorial District, has called for the establishment of a United States military base in the Mandara Mountains of Borno State as part of efforts to strengthen the fight against Boko Haram insurgents in Nigeria’s North-East region.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Sunday, the former Senate Chief Whip argued that the strategic location of the Mandara Mountains makes it an important operational area in the ongoing battle against terrorism.

According to Ndume, the rugged mountain range along the Nigeria-Cameroon border has long served as a refuge for Boko Haram fighters, allowing them to launch attacks and evade security operations. He maintained that a stronger international military partnership, including a permanent American military presence in the area, could significantly enhance efforts to dismantle insurgent networks operating in the region.

The senator’s remarks come amid renewed security concerns in parts of Borno State, where military authorities continue to confront Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) elements. Recent operations by Nigerian troops have recorded notable successes, including the rescue of hundreds of abducted civilians from insurgent-controlled locations within the Mandara Mountains.

Military authorities recently announced the rescue of 360 abducted persons during a major operation in the mountainous region, highlighting both the strategic importance of the area and the continued presence of insurgent groups there. Reports indicated that the operation dealt a significant setback to Boko Haram’s activities in the region.

Ndume has consistently advocated stronger military action against insurgents. In previous statements, he urged security agencies to sustain coordinated offensives in known terrorist strongholds, including the Sambisa Forest, Lake Chad Basin, and the Mandara Mountains.

The proposal for a United States military base is likely to generate debate among security experts, policymakers, and members of the public. While supporters may view it as an opportunity to enhance intelligence sharing, surveillance capabilities, and counterterrorism operations, critics may raise questions about national sovereignty and the long-term implications of hosting a foreign military installation on Nigerian soil.

Nigeria and the United States have maintained security cooperation over the years, particularly in intelligence gathering, military training, and counterterrorism support. However, the establishment of a permanent foreign military base would represent a significant development in bilateral security relations.

As insurgent attacks continue to pose challenges across parts of the North-East, discussions surrounding new strategies and international partnerships are expected to remain at the forefront of Nigeria’s security agenda.