Nigeria’s Insecurity and the U.S. Rescue Mission: A Wake-Up Call for True Leadership — Festus Bello

The recent U.S. rescue operation in Nigeria has reignited national and international debate over the state of security in the country, raising questions about leadership, accountability, and Nigeria’s growing dependence on foreign intervention.

Commenting on the development, Mr. Festus Bello, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of BFG Global Consulting Limited, expressed deep concern over what he described as the federal government’s failure to decisively address the worsening insecurity across the nation.

In a statement shared on his social media page, Bello said: “I place full responsibility on the Nigerian government for allowing this situation to descend into international embarrassment. For too long, authorities have ignored credible intelligence and failed to act decisively—particularly in the North and Middle Belt, where terrorist and bandit groups continue to terrorize innocent citizens.”

The management consultant and enterprise transformation leader noted that Nigeria’s leadership continues to operate reactively rather than proactively, often responding only after tragedies occur. According to him, true leadership requires foresight, accountability, and the courage to take difficult decisions before crises escalate.

“Leadership is not about reactionary statements after tragedy—it is about foresight, responsibility, and the courage to make tough decisions before disaster strikes,” he added.

While commending the U.S. government for its swift and courageous action in rescuing its citizen, Bello urged Nigeria’s leaders to reflect on the broader implications of such foreign interventions. He cautioned that history has shown, through examples in Libya, Iraq, Sudan, and Afghanistan, that well-intentioned interventions can sometimes lead to prolonged instability.

He stressed the need for strategic and balanced collaboration between Nigeria and the United States, emphasizing that security partnerships should focus on intelligence sharing, capacity building, and training, while ensuring Nigeria retains ownership of its internal security operations.

Bello called for a comprehensive national approach to identify and prosecute criminal networks and their sponsors within the bounds of Nigerian law. He also urged leaders to transcend ethnic and religious divides, asserting that every Nigerian life matters, irrespective of background or belief.

On the political front, the BFG Global boss cautioned against divisive electoral strategies, referencing the controversy surrounding the “Muslim–Muslim ticket” in recent elections.

“The ‘Muslim–Muslim ticket’ should never again be used as a political gimmick. It has only deepened division and made it harder for government leaders to counter claims of targeted attacks against Christian communities. True leadership must reflect balance, fairness, and inclusiveness,” he stated.

Concluding, Bello said Nigeria stands at a critical turning point and must decide whether to continue outsourcing its security and sovereignty or reclaim them through accountability and unity.

“Nigeria’s dignity on the global stage depends on the choices we make today,” he said. “The world is watching—but more importantly, our children are watching.”