Calls are mounting for the United States to expand its role in Nigeria’s war against terrorism after the Christmas Day bombing of terrorist enclaves in Sokoto failed to halt killings and abductions. Many argue the Nigerian Army is overstretched, under-equipped, and compromised, while US strikes and intelligence support could tip the balance.

Zik Gbemre, Coordinator of the Niger Delta Peace Coalition, said: “The Nigerian military will always leak information to the terrorists… The US military sharing information with them is a waste of time. We need more strikes just like the Christmas Day operation.”

Security consultant Nasiru Braimah, Director Operations, Prime Verse Royal (PVR), added: “The terrorists are more prepared, combat-ready, with a strong financial empire. Tactical operations, modern technology, and incentives are needed. Foreign powers are welcome to assist us.”

Amaebi Clarkson, former MOSIEND spokesman, argued: “The Nigerian Army is compromised from top to bottom… America boots on the ground would escalate insurgency internationally. I’d rather see mercenaries from South Africa deployed, like in Goodluck Jonathan’s era, which nearly neutralized terrorists in the Northeast.”

Chief Festus Ogwuche, Campaign for Social Justice and Constitutional Democracy, noted: “The Sokoto bombing caused terrorists to flee… but partnership with the Nigerian government proved counterproductive. Political actors have been complicit in terrorism.”

David West, Chairman, Civil Liberties Organization (CLO), Bayelsa, said: “US troops should do more than intelligence and training… the Nigerian government cannot defeat these terrorists alone.”

Political activist Blessing Adima emphasized: “The US presence must be more than just intelligence gathering. They have to directly help us defeat the terrorists.”

Former Provost Marshal, Brigadier-General Idada Ikponmwen (rtd), stressed: “Security is the primary purpose of government. If lives are endangered, sovereignty comes second. US support is welcome if the government cannot provide safety.”

Joseph Ambakederimo, South South Reawakening Group, warned: “We must be careful in seeking foreign help. Our normal ‘fire brigade approach’ is reactive, not strategic.”

A top anonymous security officer added: “US military should be limited to intelligence and hardware support… going beyond this exposes Nigeria to internal security risks. Our forces are capable if empowered.”

Retired AIG Austin Iwar said: “Certain battles cannot be fought alone. Strategic international collaboration does not mean surrendering sovereignty.”

While opinions differ on the level of foreign engagement, Nigerians and security experts agree on one thing: the government must act decisively, coordinate operations, and harness all available resources—local and international—to finally neutralize terrorist networks.