Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has directed a major operational restructuring of military operations in the country’s North-West and North-East regions following a series of recent attacks on military bases.
The decision came after a strategic meeting with senior commanders and service chiefs in Abuja, where security leaders reviewed the evolving security situation and assessed current military operations across different conflict zones.
Speaking after the meeting, Musa reassured Nigerians that the Nigerian Armed Forces remain fully committed to protecting the country and restoring stability in areas affected by terrorism and banditry.
According to the defence minister, the meeting focused on reviewing strategies across all operational theatres to ensure that the armed forces remain effective in responding to emerging threats.
He acknowledged that the military has suffered casualties in recent confrontations with insurgent groups but emphasized that security forces have also inflicted significant losses on terrorist and bandit networks operating in the region.
Musa noted that military operations have successfully targeted key leaders and destroyed assets belonging to armed groups, stressing that the campaign against insurgents will continue with renewed intensity.
The minister also warned Nigerians not to be misled by misleading information circulating on social media. He said false narratives and exaggerated reports about military operations could undermine the morale of troops who are actively engaged in defending the country.
While urging the public to remain confident in the military’s capabilities, Musa called on citizens to support ongoing security efforts by providing credible intelligence to authorities and reporting suspicious activities within their communities.
He emphasized that tackling insecurity is a collective national responsibility and not solely the task of the armed forces. Other security agencies, he said, are working closely with the military to address the challenges posed by terrorism and banditry across affected regions.
During his remarks, the defence minister also congratulated the newly appointed Inspector General of Police, Tunji Disu. He expressed confidence that stronger collaboration between the military and the Nigeria Police Force would further strengthen efforts to combat insecurity nationwide.
Musa additionally appealed to journalists and media organisations to exercise caution when reporting on security-related matters. He warned that broadcasting propaganda videos and messages produced by terrorist groups could inadvertently amplify their influence and serve their objectives.
He also issued a stern warning to individuals who provide logistical support, intelligence, or other forms of assistance to terrorist groups. According to him, anyone aiding such criminals will be treated as an accomplice and face the same consequences as the perpetrators.
The directive for an operational overhaul follows a wave of coordinated attacks by terrorists on several military installations in recent weeks. Some of these assaults resulted in the deaths of soldiers and commanding officers, prompting the military leadership to reassess its tactical approach in the most affected regions.
Security analysts say the planned operational changes could involve redeployment of troops, revised intelligence strategies, and stronger coordination among Nigeria’s security agencies as the government intensifies efforts to regain control of troubled areas in the North.
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