Nigeria’s former Chief of Army Staff and former Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai (Rtd), has called for the transformation of current tensions between Nigeria and the United States into a strategic partnership based on mutual respect and shared economic interests.
General Buratai identified the circulation of what he described as a “reductive and distorted narrative” about sectarian conflict in Nigeria as a key factor contributing to the misunderstanding between both countries.
He emphasised the need to move beyond misinformation to strengthen diplomatic relations and promote mutual trust between Nigeria and the United States.
“The narrative of a ‘Christian genocide’ is a dangerous oversimplification of Nigeria’s complex security landscape, which impacts Nigerians of all faiths equally,” General Buratai stated.
He said; “For the United States, anchoring policy on this fallacy risks a profound strategic setback in West Africa. For Nigeria, it represents a threat to our national sovereignty and unity.”
General Buratai who further proposed that the United States pivot from public coercion to private, resolute collaboration, suggested that the most effective way for the US to secure its interests and promote stability is through enhanced support, not sanctions.
He said; “The wiser, more sustainable course is an unequivocal shift to partnership.
“This would include offers of advanced intelligence sharing, specialised counter-insurgency training, and security aid precisely calibrated to the threats in Nigeria’s Middle Belt and North-East.”
General Buratai also highlighted a monumental opportunity for US-Nigeria economic synergy, pointing to projects like the transformative Dangote Refinery.
“By positioning American enterprise as the primary partner in Nigeria’s burgeoning energy sector, the US can secure its interests through synergy. A stable, prosperous Nigeria is an infinitely more valuable ally,” he noted.
For Nigeria, General Buratai framed the moment as a critical juncture to reinvigorate its diplomatic and narrative-building efforts.
He urged the government to launch a sophisticated, multi-pronged campaign to reclaim its story on the global stage.
General Buratai said; “Accelerating security reforms and championing economic self-sufficiency are the ultimate arguments against foreign intrusion.
“A nation that conquers its challenges and stands united offers no justification for interference.”
The former Ambassador who concluded that the stalemate need not be a zero-sum contest, expressed confidence that by choosing earnest dialogue and committed collaboration, both nations can forge a crisis into the cornerstone of a more robust, respectful, and productive relationship.
“The path forward is unequivocal.
“Through partnership, both Nigeria and the United States can achieve their fundamental, aligned interests in lasting stability and shared economic advancement for the region,” General Buratai added.
Mercy Chukwudiebere