The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has warned that the withdrawal of most United States troops from a joint counterterrorism operation in Nigeria could create fresh security challenges, cautioning that terrorist groups may exploit the development to regroup and intensify attacks on vulnerable communities unless the Federal Government moves swiftly to close the security gap.
In a statement issued on Friday, the rights advocacy group expressed concern that the reduction in American military presence could undermine recent gains against insurgent groups if not matched by stronger domestic security operations.
HURIWA aligned itself with recent concerns raised by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory, as well as the Ecumenical Synods of Bishops, Archbishops, Apostles and Senior Clergy, saying attacks on Christian communities and other vulnerable populations remain a serious security challenge despite claims of improvements in the country’s security situation.
According to the association, incidents of killings, kidnappings, displacement and destruction of homes, churches and means of livelihood continue to occur in several parts of the country, indicating that terrorist networks still retain the capacity to strike.
The group acknowledged that recent international counterterrorism operations had disrupted some insurgent cells and eliminated key commanders, but maintained that such tactical successes had yet to translate into lasting security for many Nigerians living in conflict-prone areas.
HURIWA specifically referenced the announcement by the Commander of U.S. Air Forces in Europe-Air Forces Africa, General Dagvin R.M. Anderson, that most American personnel involved in the operation had been withdrawn, describing the development as one that should prompt Nigerian authorities to strengthen rather than relax security operations.
It argued that while continued intelligence sharing with international partners remains important, intelligence alone cannot replace sustained military presence, rapid response capabilities and effective protection of civilian populations.
The rights organisation warned that extremist groups have historically taken advantage of periods of reduced military pressure to rebuild their command structures, recruit new fighters and expand their operational activities, urging Nigerian authorities to guard against such a possibility.
It called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reinforce troop deployments in vulnerable communities, expand intelligence-led operations, improve aerial surveillance and sustain pressure on terrorist networks to prevent a resurgence of violence.
HURIWA also appealed to the international community, particularly the United States, to maintain intelligence cooperation, logistical assistance, specialised training and technological support for Nigeria’s security agencies, insisting that the fight against terrorism requires sustained international collaboration.
The group further urged security agencies to prioritise communities that have suffered repeated attacks over the years, stressing that every Nigerian, irrespective of religion, ethnicity or geographical location, deserves equal protection under the Constitution.
Reaffirming that the protection of lives remains the primary responsibility of government, HURIWA called for greater urgency, coordination and accountability in Nigeria’s counterterrorism efforts, warning that any relaxation of pressure on violent extremist groups could reverse hard-won security gains and expose more communities to renewed attacks.