DHQ Reaffirms No Negotiation Policy with Terrorists

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) in Nigeria has reiterated its firm stance against negotiating with terrorists and the payment of ransom to them. During a Joint Security Press Briefing in Abuja, Major-General Samaila Uba, the spokesperson for the Nigerian military, stated that the military's primary responsibility is kinetic operations aimed at eliminating terrorists and any individuals who take up arms against Nigerian citizens.

Uba clarified that while the military does not engage in dialogue with terrorists, it supports non-kinetic actions in collaboration with other stakeholders. He also addressed concerns regarding the planned withdrawal of approximately 200 US military personnel, asserting that this decision does not signify a breakdown of the Nigeria–United States security partnership, which remains strong and mutually beneficial.

Uba explained that the US personnel's deployment is linked to specific operational objectives, and the withdrawal is part of the evolving nature of their engagement.