Critics Question Foreign Military Move as Nigeria Battles Worsening Insecurity at Home
“You don’t abandon a burning house to save a neighbour’s shed,” analysts warn
By Akinniran Akinsile
Editor-in-Chief,
Fearless Media Global
In a decision that has ignited fierce debate across the country, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reportedly ordered the Nigerian Air Force to intervene in the unfolding military coup in the Republic of Benin despite escalating insecurity within Nigeria’s borders.
The directive, confirmed by senior defence sources on Tuesday night, has raised alarms among security analysts, lawmakers, and civil society groups who argue that Nigeria’s domestic challenges should take absolute precedence.
Across the nation, the mood is one of disbelief.
A Nation Under Siege
Nigeria is currently grappling with:
Relentless banditry in the North-West
Herdsmen violence across central states
Kidnappings along major highways
Insurgency in the North-East
Separatist agitation in the South-East
Yet despite these unresolved threats, the federal government appears poised to extend military operations beyond Nigeria’s borders.
“Regional Power, Domestic Weakness”
Security experts question the logic.
“A country that calls itself West Africa’s superpower must first demonstrate control within its own borders,” one retired military commander told The Fearless Daily.
The question echoing nationwide is simple:
How can Nigeria police West Africa when Nigeria cannot fully protect Nigerians?
A Misplaced Priority?
Public policy analysts argue that while maintaining regional stability is important, prioritizing foreign conflict over national security sends a troubling message to citizens who already feel abandoned.
“Strength is not measured by military theatrics abroad,” said one Abuja-based analyst.
“Strength begins with securing your people at home.”
Growing Calls for Reversal
Opposition lawmakers and civil groups are already demanding a review of the directive, urging the president to “fix Nigeria first” before engaging in foreign military interventions.
Many warn that overstretching the already burdened Armed Forces could further weaken internal security and embolden militant groups.
The Bottom Line
Nigeria stands at a crossroads.
The government must decide whether its primary duty lies in projecting power across West Africa or restoring peace and confidence within its own borders.
Because patriotism is rooted in one truth:
A nation that cannot defend its home should not attempt to defend a region.