Nigeria: Nigeria can think for itself: DHQ responds to Turkish envoy’s terrorism claim

By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria

The Defence Headquarters has stated that Nigeria remains an independent nation capable of making its own decisions, particularly on security and counterterrorism matters. This follows recent comments by the Turkish government alleging that members of a group it designates as the Fethullah Terrorist Organisation are operating in Nigeria under the guise of educational and healthcare institutions.

The Turkish Ambassador-designate to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, claimed that the group still has an active presence in the country, posing a threat to national security. He urged Nigerian authorities to remain vigilant and cautious.

However, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, responded that the Defence Headquarters does not recognize the claims as official or verified. “Nigeria is an independent sovereign nation that can think and act for itself,” Kangye said. He emphasized that Nigeria cannot be swayed by external commentary or claims that do not align with its own intelligence and national interest.

Kangye reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to fighting terrorism on its own terms, guided by national priorities and internal intelligence. He reiterated that while the country values its international allies, its security decisions will always reflect its status as a sovereign state.

Kangye also pointed to the rise of global propaganda and psychological operations, suggesting that foreign assertions could be part of broader strategic maneuvers. “There are propagandists all over the world. Psychological oppressions go on everywhere. That’s why we must be vigilant,” he added.