Nigerian Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar addressed allegations of USAID supporting Boko Haram, stating they are unproven. He emphasized the weakening of the terrorist group and highlighted rehabilitation efforts through the Safe Corridor programme. Tuggar praised Nigeria’s counterterrorism strategies, especially the Multinational Joint Task Force, which serves as a model for other nations. He urged citizens to recognize Nigeria’s past contributions to African peacekeeping missions and to view their country’s achievements in security and diplomacy more positively.
During the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing Series held in Abuja, Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, addressed allegations concerning the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) allegedly supporting Boko Haram. He emphasized that these accusations lack substantial evidence and reassured the public that the terrorist organization has been significantly weakened through various government efforts.
Minister Tuggar expressed his commitment to avoiding interference in American domestic politics, suggesting that the allegations stemmed from a particular politician. He reaffirmed the Nigerian government’s focus on rehabilitating individuals affected by Boko Haram through initiatives like the Safe Corridor programme in Gombe, where assessment and support are provided to former insurgents and affected individuals.
According to Tuggar, participants in the Safe Corridor programme are categorized based on their involvement, with reorientation, trials, and resettlement assistance offered accordingly. He praised the effectiveness of Nigeria’s counterterrorism measures, particularly highlighting the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) as a model for operational success adopted by other countries.
The minister noted international interest in Nigeria’s innovative strategies, citing that countries like Somalia are looking to replicate their approach. Tuggar also pointed to Nigeria’s historical contributions to peacekeeping missions in Africa, notably in Sierra Leone and Liberia, urging citizens to recognize these successes in security and diplomacy with a renewed perspective.
In conclusion, Minister Tuggar’s remarks address the unfounded allegations against USAID regarding Boko Haram and highlight Nigeria’s counterterrorism achievements. The government remains focused on rehabilitation efforts for affected individuals and asserts the effectiveness of initiatives such as the Safe Corridor programme and the MNJTF. Tuggar encouraged Nigerians to appreciate their country’s contributions to peace and security in the region.
Original Source: saharareporters.com
