The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has expressed its appreciation to the Nigerian Government for firmly stating its stance against allowing foreign military bases in the country.
In a statement released by Prof. T. A. Muhammad-Baba, the National Publicity Secretary of ACF, it was emphasized that “The Federal Government of Nigeria must be applauded for taking such a bold and reassuring position. This development is a source of pride for every African.”
ACF further noted that this decision signifies a victory for patriotic Nigerians who had demonstrated readiness to oppose the rumored plans to host United States and French military bases in Nigeria, especially after their rejection in Burkina Faso and Niger.
The ACF also criticized the Human Rights Writers Association (HURIWA) for allegedly supporting the establishment of these military bases. The forum expressed disappointment in HURIWA’s stance, emphasizing that such bases historically serve the interests of advanced countries and operate outside the control and respect for the national laws of their hosts.
The statement underscored the detrimental effects of hosting foreign military bases, citing the experiences of Burkina Faso and Niger. ACF emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to solidarity with sister African states and its determination to resist any form of colonialism or neo-colonialism.
“It is imperative to recognize that anything detrimental to the interests of African countries cannot benefit Nigeria, given our shared destinies and deep historical, socio-cultural, economic, and political ties,” the statement concluded.
