US Africa Command (AFRICOM) and Nigeria's National Security

Abstract

The US decision to establish a unified combatant command (AFRICOM) in African has raised numerous questions, particularly in Africa, regarding its possible security implications for the continent. The article narrows itself to the concern for unraveling the national security implications of Nigeria's opposition to the location of AFRICOM. It also highlights the tripartite security concerns that informed US decision to establish a combatant command in Africa. The article argues that Nigeria's opposition to AFRICOM would likely lead to fracturing of US-Nigeria's relations as well as increased, though subtle, intervention of the US in Nigeria's internal affairs. For a win-win approach to the varying legitimate security concerns of Nigeria and the US visà- vis AFRICOM, the article advocates that Nigeria's approach should be underpinned by the philosophy of enlightened moderation and constructive engagement.

Africa Insight Vol. 38 (1) 2008: pp. 173-184