The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has refuted reports suggesting that Niger Republic has withdrawn from the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), emphasizing that such a move would have serious security implications for Nigeria and the region.
Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, dismissed the claims, stating that the MNJTF remains a crucial security framework for tackling terrorism and insurgency across West Africa.
He noted that the force was established under the Lake Chad Basin Commission to address common security threats faced by member countries, including Nigeria, Chad, Cameroon, and Niger.
“When you hear ‘dem say,’ it means the information lacks credibility. This issue has been a subject of speculation, especially following recent discussions about some ECOWAS nations forming alliances and attempting to exit the regional bloc,” Kangye stated.
He stressed that Nigeria has been making sustained efforts to ensure the continued existence of the MNJTF, adding that the withdrawal of any country would significantly weaken security coordination in the region.
“If a country pulls out, it creates a gap in the force and reduces the strength of the contingent from that nation. It is not in our interest for any member to leave because whatever affects them also affects us. Efforts must be made to prevent such a situation from happening,” he added.
On counter-terrorism efforts, Kangye reaffirmed the military’s commitment to capturing notorious terrorist leader Bello Turji, describing it as only a matter of time before security forces bring him to justice.
He also dismissed claims that troops had reduced their operations against bandits, cattle rustlers, and terrorists, insisting that the military remains active in its fight against insecurity.
“Our troops intercepted several trucks loaded with stolen cattle and are still actively pursuing high-value terrorist targets. I have read out several names of high-profile terrorists eliminated in recent operations. As for Bello Turji, his day of reckoning is near; an appointment has been set with his maker,” Kangye said.
Troops’ Welfare Remains a Priority—DHQ
Responding to concerns about the welfare of wounded soldiers, Kangye dismissed allegations that injured personnel were being neglected, insisting that the military has robust support structures in place for troops wounded in action.
“To the best of my knowledge, our troops are well taken care of. Over the Salah break, senior military officers, including the Chief of Army Staff and the Chief of Air Staff, visited troops at the front lines to celebrate with them,” he stated.
He revealed that military hospitals, such as the 44 Military Hospital in Kaduna, frequently host top commanders who personally ensure that wounded troops receive adequate care.
“I remember vividly that the Commander of Infantry, General A.K. Ibrahim, was at 44 Military Hospital to have lunch with our wounded soldiers. Last year, when I was the Commander of Artillery, I spent Christmas with our troops in the hospital instead of with my family. The year before that, I was in Mangu, Plateau State, to celebrate with troops on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff,” he recounted.
Kangye also disclosed that some critically wounded soldiers had been flown abroad for specialized medical treatment in countries such as Egypt, Turkey, and India.
“In December or November, houses were issued to some of our wounded-in-action soldiers. The Nigerian Army built an estate, and the keys were handed over to them free of charge. So when you hear claims that troops are not being cared for, be cautious. Some narratives are pushed to discredit the Nigerian Armed Forces, and we say no to that,” he stressed.
Military Warns Against Fake News, Religious Crisis Speculations
The DHQ spokesperson also addressed concerns regarding recent killings of travelers from Edo State, noting that political leaders from both Edo and Kano States had taken steps to resolve the matter.
“The leadership of Edo State visited Kano State over the issue and met with the families of the victims. At the political level, the matter has been addressed. Any individual or group attempting to incite further tension will be investigated by security agencies,” he assured.
Kangye further cautioned against the spread of false information, particularly claims of religious conflicts in northern Nigeria. He urged journalists and the public to verify reports before disseminating them, warning that misleading narratives could be exploited to create unrest.
“This is an AI-dominated information age. False narratives can be manipulated to spread confusion. However, we remain committed to investigating credible reports and taking appropriate action,” he stated.
The military’s reassurance comes as Nigeria continues to combat insurgency, banditry, and other security challenges, with authorities emphasizing the need for accurate reporting to avoid unnecessary panic and misinformation.