Ndume Calls For US Military Base In Borno To Combat Boko Haram

Former Senate Chief Whip and senator representing Borno South Senatorial District, Ali Ndume, has advocated for a stronger United States military presence in Borno State as part of efforts to combat the Boko Haram insurgency in Nigeria’s North-East region.

According to reports, the lawmaker suggested that American forces establish a military base around the Mandara Mountains, arguing that the strategic location would significantly disrupt insurgent operations and limit their movement across the region.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Sunday, Ndume expressed confidence in the technological capabilities of the United States military, stating that a base in the Mandara Mountains would enable effective surveillance of terrorist activities stretching from the mountainous area to the Sambisa Forest.

He appealed for direct American intervention, saying the deployment would help drive Boko Haram fighters out of their strongholds and improve security in the state. Ndume maintained that the Mandara Mountains could serve as a key observation point for monitoring insurgent movements and preventing attacks.

The senator further explained that the geographical network linking Sambisa Forest, Lake Chad, Kaga, Buni Yadi, and Gwoza provides insurgents with critical supply and escape routes. He argued that securing the Mandara Mountains would effectively break this cycle, cutting off access to logistics, reinforcements, and supplies.

Ndume stressed that achieving lasting success against terrorism would require not only strategic positioning but also adequate manpower and resources for the Nigerian Army. He noted that strengthening military capacity on the ground, alongside advanced surveillance and international cooperation, would go a long way in reducing insurgent activities and restoring security across Borno State and the wider North-East.