African Role for the United States Military -- Nigeria as a Model

摘要

An examination of recent political history in undeveloped nations shows that the possibility of conflict among current leaders and their dissatisfied opponents could lead to instability that may prompt U.S. involvement. African military leaders have the potential to overthrow their governments, and they may use political inefficiency and corruption as the reason. The United States' support for African militaries will benefit both it and the recipient states. Such support will add to the unity and stability of the state by strengthening the central government's influence in rural areas; promote a pro-West orientation on the part of the military; insure that if a military coup is attempted, its outcome will be favorable to the United States; assist public works programs in rural areas and in fields that are not covered by other development assistance agencies; increase the competency of the military by selectively strengthening it to complement unification and public works programs; encourage an atmosphere of acceptability to requests for overflight privileges and basing rights; and cultivate another pro-United States voice in world opinion. Nigeria was selected as a model because of its importance in Africa and because it has problems common to many other African states. This model can be applied to other states after it is tailored to the problems of that state. The timely application of U.S. aid to Africa will go far to prevent greater instability and possible U.S. military intervention.