Senator Ndume Calls for U.S. Military Base in Borno to Tackle Boko Haram Threat

Senator Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South in the Nigerian Senate, has renewed calls for stronger international military cooperation in tackling insurgency in Nigeria’s North-East region. He specifically suggested that the United States establish a military presence in Borno State to help combat Boko Haram-linked violence.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television Politics program, Ndume highlighted the persistent security challenges affecting communities across the region. He stressed that the geography of the area, particularly the Mandara Mountain range, could serve as a strategic advantage point for advanced surveillance and coordinated military operations.

According to him, positioning foreign military support in such a location could significantly improve intelligence gathering and limit the operational freedom of insurgent groups. He explained that areas like Gwoza, the Mandara Mountains, and surrounding terrains offer tactical visibility over key movement corridors used by armed groups.

Ndume openly expressed his support for deeper external involvement, stating that a United States military base in Borno could help reduce insecurity. He emphasized that the rugged landscape provides both challenges and opportunities for security operations, especially in monitoring the Sambisa Forest region, which has long been associated with militant activity.

He further argued that Nigeria’s military alone may not be fully equipped to handle the scale of the crisis without additional manpower, logistics, and technological support. In his view, coordinated efforts combining local forces and international allies could strengthen counter-insurgency operations and disrupt supply routes used by armed groups.

The senator maintained that increasing security presence around strategic zones such as the Mandara Mountains and Sambisa Forest would improve safety for civilians and help restore stability across affected communities in the North-East.

Ndume concluded that sustained military pressure and improved operational resources remain essential in reducing insurgent influence and restoring peace in the region.