“Little Has Changed In Nigeria Concerning Terrorist Attacks” — US Senator Lambasts Tinubu Government
A United States senator has criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration over Nigeria’s persistent security crisis, stating that “little has changed concerning terrorist attacks” despite repeated commitments by the government to tackle insurgency.
Speaking during a congressional policy briefing on African security, the lawmaker—whose remarks were widely circulated on Capitol Hill—expressed concern over ongoing killings, kidnappings, and extremist violence across northern Nigeria. According to him, the international community continues to receive “disturbing reports” of mass abductions, attacks on schools, and assaults on rural communities.
“The Nigerian government promised reforms and new strategies, but little has changed concerning terrorist attacks. Communities are still vulnerable and terrorism continues to destabilise the region,” the senator stated.
He noted that the US maintains strategic diplomatic and military relations with Nigeria but argued that accountability and measurable progress should be prerequisites for continued support.
The senator also warned that the prolonged instability poses a broader threat to West Africa, especially with spillover violence from armed groups operating across Niger, Chad, and the Sahel.
As of the time of reporting, the Tinubu administration had yet to issue an official response to the criticism. Government officials have previously maintained that the current administration is strengthening defence spending, investing in military hardware, and coordinating regional efforts to combat terrorism.
Nigeria continues to battle multiple security challenges including Boko Haram insurgency, ISWAP operations, banditry, communal clashes, and kidnappings targeting schools and travellers. Despite military offensives, attacks on civilians remain frequent, prompting growing scrutiny from international bodies, rights groups, and foreign partners.
The senator urged Nigeria to intensify intelligence operations, improve community-based security systems, and ensure justice for victims of terrorism.
“Nigeria is too important to fail. But the world needs to see real progress, not repeated promises,” he added.