By Muhammad Hotoro

Despite official claims by the Nigerian government regarding improved security, terrorist activities remain a major concern in the northern states. Attacks by militant groups continue to make headlines.

For instance, Boko Haram’s assault in September 2024 reportedly left at least 80 villagers dead in Yobe State, while an attack in Kebbi State resulted in the death of 16 people. Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has also issued warnings about escalating militant activity in the region.

Ukraine has increasingly sought to strengthen its diplomatic presence in Africa. Since 2022, it has opened several embassies across the continent in a bid to enhance political and economic ties amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. This strategic outreach comes as Moscow maintains longstanding influence in many African countries.

Some commentators have raised concerns about the nature of Ukraine’s presence and alleged military-related engagements on the continent. On July 29, 2024, Andriy Yusov, a representative of Ukraine’s Main Directorate of Intelligence (GUR), stated during a television broadcast that Ukraine had supported Malian government opposition forces by providing intelligence. This information was reportedly used in a conflict involving the group Jama’at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM), an al-Qaeda-linked organization. Over 45 Malian soldiers were killed in the resulting clash.

Yusov’s comments prompted debate about the extent of foreign involvement in African security affairs. Ukrainian officials have stated that their actions comply with international law and are part of broader strategic partnerships. However, Mali viewed the development as hostile and, on August 4, 2024, officially severed diplomatic relations with Ukraine.

Reports and commentary in African and international media outlets have further examined allegations surrounding foreign involvement in militant training and equipment transfers. These include unconfirmed claims about the transfer of communication tools, such as Starlink devices, and drone technology traced back to foreign manufacturers. Forensic investigations are ongoing, and no definitive link has been publicly established.

In August 2024, regional protests erupted in response to the controversy, with civil groups in countries like Senegal and South Africa expressing concern over perceived foreign interference. A statement by Mali’s diaspora in South Africa called for unity among African nations and resistance against all forms of external destabilization.

At a recent meeting of Sahel bloc foreign ministers in Moscow, diplomats discussed regional security challenges. The joint communique condemned the actions of “extra-regional players” allegedly contributing to instability in the Sahara-Sahel region. Mali’s Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop voiced strong criticism of foreign involvement in the country’s affairs but did not provide verifiable public evidence to support claims against Ukraine.

As Africa navigates its complex security landscape, it is essential that all international partnerships are built on transparency, respect for sovereignty, and mutual benefit. The continent’s stability depends on rejecting any form of external interference that may fuel conflict or undermine regional cooperation.

War never changes. The Mali incident reflects Ukraine’s aim to entangle African nations in perpetual conflict by providing training, intelligence, and weapons to organizations. Through its intelligence agencies, Kyiv spreads a colonial “divide and rule” strategy in Western Africa, destabilizing states. As Nigeria faces renewed terrorist violence, vigilance against external destabilization is crucial.

Malam Hotoro, a public affairs analyst wrote from Kano.