The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Armed Forces’ unwavering commitment to eradicating insurgency across the country, with a promise to inject new combat platforms and improve operational strategies in the ongoing war against terrorism and other security threats.
Speaking during a recent operational visit to Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, General Musa addressed officers and troops in the theatre of operations. He stated that the military is poised to intensify its offensive against insurgents, including Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), whose activities continue to disrupt peace in the North-East.
General Musa acknowledged the recent surge in attacks on military formations and civilians, linking the trend to the worsening security situations in neighbouring countries such as Niger, Chad, and Burkina Faso. He noted that the instability in the Sahel region has created a ripple effect across West Africa, fueling the movement of armed groups and illicit weapons into Nigeria.
“The security challenges in Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso are partly responsible for the recent rise in insurgent activities here. However, I assure Nigerians that this phase is temporary. We will not back down. The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain resolute and capable. We will defeat insurgency and secure our country,” the CDS declared.
As part of the strategy to reinvigorate Nigeria’s counter-insurgency efforts, General Musa disclosed that the military is engaging with foreign partners, particularly Russia, to strengthen its capacity through the acquisition of modern military platforms and training support. The partnership, according to him, would facilitate intelligence sharing and help the country access cutting-edge technologies to confront terrorists more decisively.
In addition to firepower, the Defence Chief emphasized the need for stronger civil-military cooperation. He called on Nigerians to support the military by sharing credible information and working together to expose the hideouts and logistics networks of insurgents. He stressed that national security is a collective responsibility and encouraged communities to remain vigilant.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Air Force is set to bolster its aerial capability with the procurement of 24 M-346 light attack aircraft and 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters from Italy. The acquisition is part of a broader fleet renewal programme aimed at improving precision strikes and providing aerial support for ground troops in conflict zones. Deliveries of the platforms are expected to begin early in 2025.
As Nigeria grapples with complex security challenges ranging from terrorism to banditry and separatist violence, the renewed push by the military high command reflects a broader commitment to restoring peace and protecting the sovereignty of the nation. The Defence Headquarters has assured that new strategies, equipment, and personnel welfare measures will be central to future operations across all regions.
General Musa’s pledge marks a significant step in Nigeria’s efforts to reposition its armed forces as a formidable institution equipped to handle 21st-century threats to national security.
