The American Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVID), a US-based veterans’ organisation, has written to the US Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, calling for the establishment of a United States military base in Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
In the letter dated November 6 and signed by AVID President, Dr. Sylvester Unyia and Secretary, Dr. Godson Obiagwu, the group thanked Secretary Hegseth for his “unwavering support in tackling the Christian genocide in Nigeria” and urged concrete action to deter further violence.
AVID is made up of American citizens of Igbo descent who have served or are currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.
The group said its members have deep cultural and geographical knowledge of the affected areas in southeastern Nigeria, which they believe uniquely positions them to support US engagement in the region.
“We know the topography of the areas affected, their mindset, culture, and comprehend fully the magnitude of this problem,” the letter stated.
“A permanent solution is the only way to resolve this Christian genocide. Establishing a U.S. military base (in Nigeria) will be the genesis of resolving this issue, as it will serve as a deterrent to these perpetrators.”
AVID also accused the Nigerian government of spreading “lies and propaganda” about the ongoing violence, adding that its members were “ready and standing by to render any form of assistance.” The veterans concluded the letter with an expression of loyalty to both the United States and President Donald Trump, writing, “May God bless you, Sir. Long live Donald J. Trump, and long live the United States of America.”
