Minister of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has directed troops engaged in counter-terrorism and anti-banditry operations across the country to eliminate terrorists and other armed criminals without waiting for further approval from their commanders whenever they encounter them during operations.
General Musa gave the directive on Wednesday during the commissioning of newly acquired security assets by the Sokoto State Government in Sokoto.
Addressing military personnel and other security operatives, he stressed that troops must remain proactive, courageous and decisive in confronting terrorists, warning that hesitation on the battlefield often gives criminal elements the opportunity to regroup, escape or launch fresh attacks on innocent citizens.
According to him, every soldier deployed on legitimate military operations already has the authority to engage terrorists whenever they are encountered. He said troops should not delay taking action because they are waiting for fresh orders, noting that such delays could endanger lives and undermine the success of ongoing security operations.
The Chief of Defence Staff warned that any security operative who deliberately fails to confront terrorists despite having the opportunity to do so could be regarded as aiding criminal elements. He emphasised that the Armed Forces of Nigeria have a constitutional responsibility to defend the nation’s territorial integrity, protect lives and property, and eliminate threats posed by terrorists, bandits, kidnappers and other violent criminal groups.
General Musa noted that the Federal Government remains committed to strengthening the operational capacity of the Armed Forces through improved funding, intelligence gathering, modern equipment and strategic partnerships with state governments. He said recent investments in military hardware and logistics are already enhancing the effectiveness of security operations in several parts of the country.
His remarks came as the Sokoto State Government commissioned security equipment valued at more than ₦27 billion to support military and other security agencies in the fight against insecurity.
The newly acquired assets include armoured personnel carriers, tactical combat vehicles, patrol vehicles, motorcycles for rapid deployment, communication gadgets, bulletproof jackets, ballistic helmets, night-vision devices and other surveillance equipment designed to improve operational efficiency.
Speaking at the event, Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu said the investment demonstrates his administration’s commitment to protecting residents and restoring lasting peace across the state.
He described insecurity as one of the biggest challenges facing the North-West and pledged continued support for security agencies through the provision of logistics and operational resources.
The governor explained that the security equipment would be distributed among the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and other relevant agencies operating in the state. He expressed confidence that the additional resources would strengthen intelligence gathering, improve rapid response capabilities and enhance ongoing operations against terrorists, bandits and kidnappers.
General Christopher Musa commended the Sokoto State Government for making security a top priority, describing the procurement of the equipment as a major contribution to national security. He encouraged other state governments to complement the efforts of the Federal Government by supporting security agencies with logistics, infrastructure and timely intelligence.
Despite calling for decisive military action, the Chief of Defence Staff reminded troops to remain disciplined and professional while carrying out their constitutional duties. He urged them to respect the rights of law-abiding citizens, avoid unnecessary harassment and ensure that innocent civilians are protected during military operations.
He also appealed to residents of Sokoto State and Nigerians generally to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing credible and timely intelligence on suspicious movements and criminal activities. According to him, community support remains one of the most effective tools in defeating terrorism and banditry.
General Musa expressed confidence that stronger collaboration among the Federal Government, state governments, security agencies and local communities would help restore peace in areas affected by insecurity. He reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ determination to dismantle terrorist networks, eliminate criminal hideouts and create a safer environment for all Nigerians.
The directive comes as security forces continue sustained operations against terrorist groups, bandits and kidnappers across several northern states. Military authorities have maintained that improved operational coordination, modern equipment and actionable intelligence remain critical to achieving lasting peace and ensuring the safety of communities across the country. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.
