**"Partnering with the US: Nigeria's Security Conundrum"** The arrival of American troops and military aircraft in Nigeria has sparked a national conversation about the country's evolving security relationship with the United States. While the deployment is touted as a means to boost Nigeria's counter-terrorism capacity through training and intelligence sharing, it raises important questions about the nation's sovereignty and the drivers of insecurity. Nigeria is not a nation in need of foreign guardianship. As Africa's most populous country, it boasts one of the continent's largest militaries and a rich history of regional peacekeeping. From Liberia to The Gambia, Nigerian forces have played a key role in maintaining stability. The symbolism of foreign troops on Nigerian soil, therefore, cannot be overstated. The federal government insists that the American personnel are here to provide advisory support, with Nigeria retaining operational control. This distinction matters, as it underscores the importance of Nigeria's sovereignty in the partnership. However, in the face of a security crisis of alarming proportions, the deployment of foreign troops raises concerns about the nation's ability to address the structural drivers of insecurity. Boko Haram and ISWAP continue to wreak havoc in the northeast, while armed bandits terrorize communities in the northwest. Kidnapping for ransom has become a lucrative industry, and communal clashes and farmer-herder conflicts simmer across the north-central region. Insecurity has disrupted farming, deepened poverty, displaced millions, and eroded citizens' confidence in state institutions. While enhanced training and intelligence support from the US may appear pragmatic, it is essential to consider whether foreign military presence addresses the root causes of Nigeria's insecurity. Terrorism and banditry thrive in environments marked by governance deficits, corruption, youth unemployment, porous borders, and alienation from the state. There is a risk that foreign military collaboration becomes a convenient substitute for addressing these underlying issues. Nigeria must ensure that its partnership with the US remains clearly defined, transparent, and anchored in Nigerian interests. The nation's sovereignty and ability to address its security challenges must be respected and prioritized. As the country navigates this complex security landscape, it is essential to strike a balance between seeking external support and addressing the structural drivers of insecurity. By doing so, Nigeria can build a more robust and sustainable security architecture that serves the nation's interests and its people.