Shehu Sani Warns: U.S. May React Negatively if Nigeria Purchases Affordable Arms from Russia or China

Senator Shehu Sani, a former lawmaker who represented Kaduna Central in the National Assembly, recently voiced his concerns about Nigeria’s approach to military procurement for its fight against terrorism and banditry. He warned that if Nigeria were to purchase more affordable weapons from countries like Russia or China, it could strain relations with the United States.

According to a report by The Punch, the Nigerian Air Force has plans to bolster its combat readiness by acquiring 24 M-346 Fighter Ground Attack jets and 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters. In a tweet on Friday, Sani underscored the urgency, saying, Nigeria is facing terrorism and banditry on multiple fronts, and adequate weapons and ammunition are essential to confront these threats.

The senator, who hails from Kaduna, also highlighted the challenges that come with purchasing arms. He explained that buying less costly equipment from Russia or China could anger the United States, while opting for more expensive U.S. arms often brings strict conditions and restrictions that limit the Nigerian military’s operational freedom.

Sani argued that Nigeria should focus on developing its own weaponry to better address its security issues, stressing the importance of self-reliance in defense. His statements have sparked widespread discussion on social media, with many people reflecting on the challenges of Nigeria’s military strategy and international relations.