President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the procurement of additional military hardware to strengthen the Armed Forces of Nigeria in their ongoing campaign against insurgency and terrorism across the country. The decision was disclosed on Thursday by Christopher Gwabin Musa, who spoke with journalists after a high-level security briefing with the President.
According to Musa, the meeting provided an opportunity for senior military officials to brief the President on the current security situation and the progress being made in military operations aimed at tackling insurgent and terrorist groups threatening national stability.
Musa explained that the session enabled the nation’s service chiefs to present a detailed update on ongoing operations and the broader security landscape across Nigeria. He said the discussions were comprehensive and allowed the President to receive first-hand information on developments from those directly involved in managing military operations. Speaking after the meeting, the defence chief stated, “The meeting enabled Mr. President to gain direct insight into developments on the ground.” He added that such direct engagement with military leadership helps the President better understand the realities confronting troops and security agencies in different theatres of operation.
The defence minister also noted that some recent media reports may not fully reflect the extent of the military’s activities in confronting security threats. While acknowledging that there have been fresh attacks in certain parts of the country, Musa stressed that the armed forces have remained proactive and resolute in responding to these incidents.
According to him, troops have continued to confront insurgent groups directly and have achieved several operational successes in the process. He explained that in recent operations, several high-ranking militant commanders were neutralised by Nigerian troops, while security forces also seized a range of assets belonging to insurgents, including equipment and materials used in their operations.
While highlighting these operational gains, Musa also paid tribute to soldiers who have lost their lives in the line of duty during the ongoing counter-terrorism operations. He described their sacrifices as deeply painful but necessary in the broader effort to secure the nation and protect its citizens from violent threats.
According to him, the courage and dedication of the country’s military personnel continue to demonstrate the determination of the armed forces to safeguard Nigeria’s territorial integrity and ensure public safety. Emphasising the commitment of the military, he stated, “The commitment of our Armed Forces to ensuring the safety and security of Nigerians is unwavering.”
The defence minister also appealed to Nigerians for patience and continued support as the military intensifies efforts to combat insurgency and terrorism. He explained that terrorist groups often attempt to escalate their activities during the holy month of Ramadan, taking advantage of the period to launch attacks or destabilise communities.
In response to this pattern, Musa said military commanders have adjusted operational strategies and strengthened surveillance and defensive measures in affected areas. According to him, the armed forces remain vigilant and prepared to counter any emerging threats during the period.
Musa expressed optimism that with the President’s approval for additional military hardware and improved coordination among security agencies, the armed forces would continue to make significant progress in the fight against terrorism.
He emphasised that collaboration among Nigeria’s various security institutions remains strong and that joint operations are playing a critical role in addressing complex security challenges. Reaffirming the determination of the security agencies, Musa said, “Our agencies are working in concert, fully committed to winning this war.”
Nigeria has been grappling with insurgency and terrorism for more than a decade, particularly in the North-East Nigeria, where extremist groups such as Boko Haram and its splinter faction, the Islamic State West Africa Province, have carried out attacks against civilians, military personnel, and government facilities.
The insurgency has resulted in thousands of deaths and the displacement of millions of people over the years, while also disrupting economic activities and social stability in affected communities.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria have played a central role in counter-terrorism operations aimed at reclaiming territories once controlled by insurgent groups, dismantling militant networks, and protecting civilian populations.
Through various operations conducted in collaboration with other security agencies and regional partners, Nigerian troops have succeeded in retaking several communities previously occupied by insurgents and have continued to conduct targeted operations to weaken militant strongholds.
Beyond insurgency in the North-East, Nigeria also faces other security challenges across different parts of the country, including banditry, kidnapping, and communal conflicts. These threats have prompted the government to deploy military forces in multiple regions to assist civil authorities and maintain law and order.
Analysts say the procurement of additional military hardware approved by the President could strengthen operational capacity and enhance the ability of security forces to address the evolving nature of these threats.