Indications emerged, yesterday, in Abuja, that the United States of America may soon relax or completely lift its restriction on military assistance to Nigeria.

The restriction  under ‘Leahy Law’ followed allegations of human rights abuses by the Nigerian military in the fight against terrorism.

US congressman, Darell Issah, who led a delegation of the Judicial Committee, made the disclosure after a meeting with the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Alhaji Aliyu Ismaila, the Chief of Defence Staff, Major General Olonishakin, and Service Chiefs of Army, Navy and Air Force and Commandant of the National Defence College, Rear Admiral Agholor.

Issah said the new direction was occasioned by the policy of the Nigerian Military Establishment regarding its operations in the ongoing war against terrorism in the country.

He said: “There were a number of things that were discussed at the meeting but basically the need for additional technical support including overhead surveillance. This was discussed because it is important in the fight against Boko Haram.

“This is because of the trust in the new regime which has began the process of ensuring that the military’s professionalism in the battle field is made in a way that we all can be confident that the rule of law is followed.

“Following this development, we have began the process of lifting restriction under the Leahy Law but the vast majority of the support U.S. provides will be given regardless of the restrictions.”