US-based Nigerian coalition slams Kimberly Daniels, faults call for Matawalle’s removal
A coalition of Nigerians in the United States has criticised recent remarks by US lawmaker Kimberly Daniels, describing her call for Bello Matawalle’s removal as ill-informed and potentially detrimental to
A coalition of Nigerians in the United States has criticised recent remarks by US lawmaker Kimberly Daniels, describing her call for Bello Matawalle’s removal as ill-informed and potentially detrimental to Nigeria’s sovereignty.
Operating under the banner of the Nigerian-American Coalition for Strategic Stability (NACSS), the group said the intervention reflects a pattern of foreign commentary lacking sufficient understanding of Nigeria’s security landscape.
In a statement signed by its convener, Maxwell Akarachi, the coalition cautioned against efforts that could distort facts or undermine confidence in the country’s defence institutions.
Akarachi said Daniels' position appeared aligned with narratives that question the credibility of Nigeria’s security framework, raising concerns about the broader implications of such claims.
He noted that Nigeria’s security challenges, particularly in the north-central and north-west regions, stemmed from structural vulnerabilities, cross-border criminal networks, and evolving threats, rather than the actions of a single official.
The group maintained that attributing responsibility to one office holder based on unverified claims could weaken ongoing security efforts and complicate coordinated responses.
It added that since his appointment under the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Matawalle has been part of broader initiatives aimed at strengthening military operations, improving intelligence coordination, and stabilising affected regions.
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While acknowledging persistent security concerns, the coalition said there have been measurable gains in disrupting armed groups and restoring access to previously affected communities.
Akarachi also raised concerns about the timing of the remarks, suggesting they could influence external perceptions of Nigeria’s internal security efforts.
The group emphasised that accountability within the security sector should be addressed through established institutional frameworks, while urging international partners to prioritise constructive engagement in tackling shared security challenges.
“We welcome global partnerships, but such partnerships must be grounded in respect, accuracy, and a genuine commitment to solutions,” Akarachi added.
The group concluded by calling on Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to remain vigilant against what it termed “coordinated attempts to delegitimise national institutions,” insisting that the country’s security challenges require unity, resilience, and strategic clarity.
“Hard times demand steady leadership, not opportunistic criticism. Nigeria’s path to stability will not be dictated by external pressure, but by the strength and coherence of its own institutions,” the statement added.
