U.S. President Trump (photo)’s administration has announced that the sale of warplanes to Nigeria to combat Boko Haram will move forward, US officials revealed requiring anonymity. This, in spite of concerns related to abuses by the African country’s security forces.

Regarding the deal, the US congress should receive a formal notification in few weeks. It should see Nigeria acquire (as it wished since 2015) up to 12 Embraer A-29 Super Tucano aircrafts for about $600 million, said one of the officials. President Trump’s decision to approve the deal, it should be highlighted, aligns with his intent “to support nations fighting Islamic uprisings, boost U.S. manufacturing and create high-wage jobs,” reports The New-York Times. However, the U.S. National Security Council is still reviewing the issue.

Indeed, organizations such as Amnesty International believe Trump’s decision not to be wise as they claim Nigerian security forces would not use the aircrafts the right way and could harm civilians. A belief which is supported by an incident that occurred in January, when the Rann refugee camp (near Cameroon’s border) was accidentally bombed by a fighter jet. Between 100 and 236 civilians and aid workers were killed. Subsequent to this, the aircraft deal which was then about to be signed by U.S. previous President, Barack Obama, was halted and the Nigerian government was asked to investigate the matter and deal accordingly with those responsible.

Nigeria has been battling against the Boko Haram terrorist group since 2009. It has perpetrated various attacks across the country killing thousands and kidnapping many, in the North mainly. However, the militants also attacked neighboring countries such as Cameroon, Niger and Chad.

Schadrac Akinocho