Members of the US Congress have recommended that Nigeria prioritize the purchase of American defense systems over Russian ones to enhance its counter-terrorism capabilities. The proposal was included in a congressional statement addressing Nigeria’s security situation and violence affecting certain religious communities, particularly Christians.

The statement suggests increased US-Nigeria security cooperation and encourages Nigeria to shift its military procurement toward American suppliers, arguing that this could improve the effectiveness of counter-terrorism operations.

The recommendations also include diplomatic and economic measures. These proposals mention reviewing beef exports to exert pressure on armed groups, reconsidering local legislation such as blasphemy laws, and implementing disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration programs.

These recommendations come amid persistent insecurity in Nigeria, marked by armed groups in the northern regions and intercommunal tensions. Nigerian authorities already collaborate with multiple international partners on security matters while maintaining sovereignty over strategic and military decisions.

At this stage, these proposals reflect the views of congressional members and do not constitute binding decisions for the US executive branch or the Nigerian government.