The United States has said that restrictions the restrictions on Nigeria in its ability to procure weapons from America and its allies under the country’s Leahy Law will be lifted because of the tenacity President Muhammadu Buhari has displayed in fighting Boko Haram.
US congressman, Rep Darrel Issah said this while fielding questions from journalists after a closed-door meeting with service chiefs and Ministry of Defence officials at the National Defence College (NDC) in Abuja on Monday.
Issah “There were a number of things that were discussed at the meeting but basically the need for additional technical support including overhead surveillance. This was discussed because it is important in the fight against Boko Haram.
“This is because of the trust in the new regime which has began the process of ensuring that the military’s professionalism in the battle field is made in a way that we all can be confident that the rule of law is followed.
“Following this development, we have began the process of lifting restriction under the Leahy Law but the vast majority of the support US provides will be given regardless of the restrictions.
“The vast majority of support the US provides will continue regardless of the restrictions. The support will also include training, technical support and equipment supplied will never stop but will continue.
“We are looking to work with the president (Muhammadu Buhari) and new general staff (chief of defence staff and service chiefs) to work to make sure that the people of Nigeria have the confidence in the professionalism of the military, something the people can rely on.
“To make the military something that the people will rely on as the nation tries to clear insurgents and protect the civilians; that is important to the new president of Nigeria, our president (Barack Obama) and it is also important to the congress.
“But we are looking forward to a great difference in the relationship, a proactive relationship and one in which we can provide a greater level of support.”
He added that the US through its agencies in Nigeria would help to rebuild and rehabilitate communities and victims of insurgency in the North-east.
Also speaking, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Mr. Ismaila Aliyu, said “The US believes in Nigeria, they have trust and confidence in Nigeria, that is why they are here.
“On the issue of human rights, the US is pleased with what we have been doing in recent times to address the gaps that may have existed in the past.
“This visit is a follow up to Mr. President’s visit to the US, we have said it and will continue to state that the visit was of great benefit to Nigeria, it has rekindled confidence in the relations between the two countries.”
The Leahy law prohibits the United States from assisting countries that has been accused of human rights violations.
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