BY: NEWS DESK
A recent social media post by activist Mahdi Shehu claiming that a French military base is being established in Maiduguri, Borno State, has been debunked by the Nigerian Army.
According to a statement on Monday by Capt. Reuben Kovangiya, acting deputy director, army public relations, the claim is 'baseless misrepresentation' and a deliberate attempt to spread misinformation.
The controversy started when Shehu posted a video clip showing the Acting General Officer Commanding 7 Division Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Abubakar Haruna, flanked by a foreign military officer, claiming it was a French soldier. However, the Nigerian Army has clarified that the foreign officer was actually a member of the British Military Advisory Training Team (BMATT), who was present during the donation of equipment to the Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) on October 25, 2024.
In the statement, the Nigerian Army has assured the public that there is no intention to establish a French military base in the North East Theatre of Operation.
The Army has also emphasized its long-standing partnership with BMATT, which has provided training support and equipment to help combat the menace of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in the region.
Capt. Kovangiya urged the public to disregard the false claims and rely on verified information.