The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has warned that the withdrawal of most United States troops from the joint counterterrorism operation in Nigeria could embolden terrorist groups and trigger a fresh wave of attacks unless the Federal Government urgently strengthens security across vulnerable communities.

The rights group said the development could create an opportunity for insurgents to regroup, recruit new fighters and intensify attacks, particularly in communities that have repeatedly suffered violence.

In a statement signed on Friday by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA urged President Bola Tinubu to immediately reinforce military deployments in high-risk areas and sustain pressure on terrorist networks to prevent any resurgence of violence.

The association also aligned itself with the recent concerns raised by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory, as well as the Ecumenical Synods of Bishops, Archbishops, Apostles and Senior Clergy, saying reports that attacks on Christians had ended were inconsistent with realities on the ground.

According to HURIWA, many communities across the country continue to experience deadly attacks, kidnappings, displacement and the destruction of homes, churches and other means of livelihood.

The group acknowledged that recent international counterterrorism operations had disrupted some terrorist cells and eliminated certain commanders but maintained that such gains had yet to translate into lasting security for ordinary Nigerians.

It noted that armed groups still possessed the capability to attack rural communities, highways and places of worship, leaving many citizens living in fear.

HURIWA said the announcement by the Commander of U.S. Air Forces in Europe-Air Forces Africa, General Dagvin R.M. Anderson, that most American troops deployed for the operation had been withdrawn should serve as a wake-up call for Nigerian authorities.

While describing continued intelligence sharing between both countries as valuable, the association stressed that intelligence alone could not guarantee security without effective military deployment and civilian protection.

“Although the continuation of intelligence sharing remains valuable, intelligence is only effective when matched by rapid deployment, sustained military pressure and effective civilian protection,” the statement said.

The group warned that terrorist organisations had historically taken advantage of periods of reduced military pressure to reorganise, recruit and expand their operations.

“Nigeria cannot afford such a scenario at a time when many communities remain exposed and security challenges persist across several regions,” it added.

HURIWA called on the Federal Government to intensify intelligence-led operations, strengthen aerial surveillance and ensure security agencies maintain relentless pressure on violent extremist groups.

It also appealed to the international community, particularly the United States, not to regard the withdrawal of operational troops as a sign that the fight against terrorism in Nigeria had been won.

According to the association, continued intelligence cooperation, logistical support, specialised training, technological assistance and diplomatic engagement remain essential to weakening terrorist groups and protecting civilians.

The organisation further urged security agencies to give greater attention to communities that had suffered repeated attacks over the years, insisting that every Nigerian, irrespective of religion, ethnicity or location, deserves equal protection under the Constitution.

HURIWA maintained that protecting lives must remain the government’s foremost responsibility, warning that any relaxation in the fight against insurgency could reverse recent gains and expose more communities to violence.