B/HARAM: REPUTATION OF NIGERIA’S MILITARY AT STAKE —US

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THE United States (US), on Thursday, said it was concerned by increasing Boko Haram violence and territorial gains in Nigeria, warning that the deteriorating situation threatens the future of the country.
It added that with the frequency and scope of Boko Haram’s terror attacks in the country, the reputation of Nigeria’s military was at stake.
It observed that the future of the country was in jeopardy, arguing that Abubakar Shekau’s bold announcement that “Boko Haram is now governing a caliphate in Nigeria” only added to the perception that the security situation in the country was steadily growing worse.
“We are very troubled by the apparent capture of Bama and the prospects for an attack on and in Maiduguri, which would impose a tremendous toll on the civilian population,” US Assistant Secretary of State, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, said on a visit to Abuja, on Thursday.

The US government said the developments were deeply disturbing and increasingly dangerous with each passing day.
Thomas-Greenfield, who participated at the US-Nigeria Bi-National Commission Regional Security Working Group meeting, held in Abuja, made the disclosures.
She expressed worry that since August 2013 when the meeting last held, the frequency and scope of Boko Haram’s terror attacks had grown more acute and constituted a serious threat to Nigeria’s overall security.
The envoy lamented that Boko Haram had shown that it could operate not only in the North-East, but in Kano, Abuja, and elsewhere, adding that despite the collective efforts, the situation on the ground was worsening.
She disclosed that the US was troubled by the apparent capture of Bama and the prospects for an attack on and in Maiduguri, which would impose a tremendous toll on the civilian population.
“This is a sober reality check for all of us. We are past time for denial and pride,” she said.
Thomas-Greenfield maintained that the Bi-National Commission provided the opportunity to have open and frank discussions, to ensure the partnership was achieving maximum impact.
“Cameroon’s military is increasingly forced to fight Boko Haram within its borders and they flee back into Nigeria without fear. The Chibok schoolgirls and others remain hostages, enduring horrible and tragic suffering.
“We continue to provide technical training to military and police forces engaged in the fight against Boko Haram. As an important part of this effort, we are pleased to provide advanced training to a Nigerian infantry battalion.
“The US is especially concerned about the more than 700,000 internally displaced persons and reports that those numbers continue to increase.
“We are deeply troubled by the risks to their personal security and their economic livelihoods, as well as the implications on food security.
“We are concerned about their ability as citizens to exercise their rights to vote in the upcoming elections. The fabric of too many communities is coming unwoven under the unrelenting pressure of this threat.
“We are eager to hear from you today about your plans for how civilians can better be protected throughout Nigeria. Those plans are critically important as you move forward towards your national elections next February.
“It is true that this imperative places a heavy burden and responsibility on Nigeria’s security services. You must undertake a critical task: protect civilians and protect the process to enable citizens to determine who governs them. I cannot stress enough the importance of this responsibility and I urge you to hold each other accountable.
“The United States and other friends of Nigeria, including your neighbours, are watching this election closely and have high expectations for the polling to be peaceful and credible. An inclusive and fairly conducted election is the best way to avoid electoral violence.
“In countering these threats to Nigeria’s security and the security of the entire region, we must focus on action. The United States is committed to continuing its support for Nigerian-led solutions to these pressing challenges. I know this is not easy. It is not easy for us and it is not easy for you, but it must be done,” she added.
Thomas-Greenfield said Washington would soon announce the launch of a major border security programme, which will include Nigeria and its neighbours – Cameroon, Chad and Niger
Source: Tribune