By Adenike Lawal
The Nigerian Defence Headquarters (DHQ), has refuted claims of plans to establish a French military base in the country, labeling the allegations as “fake” and “mischievous.”
This response follows accusations by human rights activist Mahdi Shehu, who alleged in a social media video that French troops had arrived in Maiduguri, Borno State, as part of efforts to set up a base.
Shehu further suggested the soldiers’ presence was linked to counterinsurgency operations against Boko Haram, raising concerns about potential exploitation of local resources.
Major-General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, dismissed the claims, emphasizing that the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, had consistently denied such reports.
Buba reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity and urged the public to disregard unverified information.
This statement underscores the DHQ’s stance against misinformation and highlights the sensitive nature of foreign military presence in Nigeria, especially amid ongoing security challenges in the northeast.
