The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Taraba State has warned that direct United States military involvement in Nigeria’s security operations would not bring lasting peace.
CAN Chairman, Very Rev. Fr. William Owoshiri, issued the caution after an interdenominational service in Jalingo, stressing that foreign intervention often deepens instability once external forces withdraw.
Owoshiri, who also lectures at Taraba State University, noted that although recent US offensives against groups like ISIS under President Donald Trump appear effective, a similar model in Nigeria could trigger renewed cycles of violence.
He argued that insecurity is fundamentally an internal challenge requiring strong political resolve and better-equipped security agencies.
He criticised the Federal Government for seeking temporary foreign assistance instead of strengthening the Army, Air Force, Navy, Police and Civil Defence with modern technology and logistical support.
Owoshiri said local vigilante groups, with better knowledge of difficult terrains, can play a vital complementary role if properly empowered.
Recalling Nigeria’s successful peacekeeping missions in Liberia, Sierra Leone and Congo, he said the nation has the capacity to address its own crisis.
He urged the US and allies to focus on intelligence sharing, drone technology and surveillance equipment rather than combat intervention. External military involvement, he warned, often complicates conflicts, as seen in Ukraine, Russia and Gaza.
