US, Nigeria sign arms deal ignoring human rights concerns

The Joe Biden led USA Government has given a nod to Nigeria to buy state of the art helicopters to the tune of $1 billion despite Nigeria’s human rights records.

The West African country is battling threats from terrorist gangs and extremists groups in the North.

The US State Department yesterday announced the deal to sell 24 Bell AH-1Z Viper helicopters and related arms worth $997 million to Nigeria.

The related equipment includes targeting systems, guidance and night vision equipment together with engines and technical support, the department reviewed in a statement.

The deal was initiated following a visit to Nigeria by US Secretary of State Antony Blicken in November last year.

Secretary Blinken also made it clear that the US regards Nigeria as a partner in the fight against Islamic extremism and terrorism in the Sahel region and the rest of West Africa.