Ali Ndume Seeks US Military Base in Borno

By Babatunji Wusu| Former Senate Chief Whip and Senator representing Borno South, Ali Ndume, has called for a stronger United States military presence in Borno State, urging American forces to establish a base in the Mandara Mountains to support efforts against Boko Haram insurgents.

Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Sunday, Ndume argued that the strategic location of the Mandara Mountains could help security forces monitor and disrupt insurgent activities across key areas of the North-East.

The senator expressed support for deeper security cooperation between Nigeria and the United States, saying advanced American surveillance capabilities could assist in tracking insurgent movements in the Mandara Mountains, Sambisa Forest and other affected locations.

“I’m hoping that they (Donald Trump and his men) could even go far beyond, as I said earlier, when the issue of Americans coming in (was reported) since last year. So I wish they could even establish their base under the Mandara Mountains and drive away all those Boko Haram elements from there.

“And then from the Mandara Mountains, it can serve as a point to even observe up to Sambisa. They have the technology to monitor those (insurgents). So I am in full support.”

Ndume specifically appealed for American forces to establish operations in Gwoza, arguing that such a move would significantly weaken insurgent networks operating within the region.

According to him, the Mandara Mountains occupy a critical position within routes frequently used by insurgents to move personnel, supplies and logistics across parts of Borno State. He explained that cutting off these routes would make it more difficult for armed groups to sustain their activities.

The lawmaker also stressed the need for greater support and resources for the Nigerian Army, noting that military success depends on adequate manpower and operational capacity.

His comments come as Nigeria and the United States continue to maintain security cooperation aimed at addressing insurgency and other security challenges in the country.