Defence Minister Asks Service Chiefs To Give Timeline For Ending Terrorism, Banditry

Defence Minister of Nigeria, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, and the Minister of State, Bello Matawalle demanded a timeline to end terrorism and banditry from the service chiefs.

The ministers stated this on Tuesday at the Ship House, Abuja, noting that this timeline and target will be passed on to the President of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu as he will be monitoring the situation.

"The President is ready to give us the needed support to achieve success because he is an achiever and does not have the patience for failure," the defense minister said, The Guardian reported.

He pointed out that until Nigeria isn't safe, there won't be any investment in the country and without getting any investments, there won't be any economic growth in the country. He assured that there will be a tangible change in Nigeria as far as security is concerned.

Minister Matawalle, on the other hand, praised the Armed Forces of Nigeria and said that they have shown exceptional commitment over time.

"New threats emerge while existing ones persist," he added. "Terrorism, banditry, insurgency, cyber warfare, transnational organized crime, and communal conflicts pose significant challenges to our national security."

He continued, "The task ahead is not an easy one. However, I am confident that with the support of my colleagues, the dedication of our armed forces, and the unwavering commitment of every Nigerian, we will overcome any challenge that comes our way."

Matawalle further shared that Nigeria has been blessed with diverse cultures, abundant resources and a resilient population. However, he stressed that there are numerous challenges faced by the armed forces in maintaining peace and stability in the country.

He noted, "Our geographical location, coupled with internal and external threats, demand a robust defense strategy that can effectively protect our sovereignty and preserve our national interest. We will leave no stone unturned in our efforts to build a strong defense apparatus that can effectively counter emerging threats."

The minister concluded by saying that defending the country is not only the government and defense forces' job but instead, is a "collective responsibility that requires the active participation of every citizen."

Nigeria is dealing with several internal conflicts and since the 2020s, attacks from bandits has been increased. In April 2022, more than 150 were killed in Plateau State by a gang of bandits.

Considering the current month's incidents, 13 people were killed last week in two different attacks by Boko Haram Jihadists in the villages of Wulari and Maiwa in northeastern Nigeria's Borno.