By Abuja, Nigeria
Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa rtd, says terrorists and bandits operating across the country have recorded heavier losses than government troops as the Armed Forces intensify operations in various conflict zones.
Speaking after a strategy meeting with service chiefs in Abuja on Wednesday, the minister reassured Nigerians that the military remains committed to restoring peace and security nationwide. According to him, the meeting was convened to review ongoing military strategies across different operational theatres in the country.
“We had a quick meeting with members of the services to review our strategy in all our theatres within the country. We are all aware of the issues on the ground, but I want to assure Nigerians that members of the armed forces are working tirelessly to ensure that Nigeria is safe and secure,” he said.
Musa acknowledged that the military had suffered casualties during recent operations but insisted that terrorists and bandits had recorded greater losses.
“We are aware that we have suffered some casualties, but I can tell you the terrorists and bandits are taking more. We are taking more commanders out, we are destroying more of their assets, and we will continue to do that,” he added.
The defence minister also urged Nigerians not to be discouraged by misinformation circulating on social media, noting that false narratives could undermine the morale of security personnel.
“We know that because of social media there are a lot of falsehoods being spread. The Armed Forces are on top of their game and we are putting in every effort to ensure the country is secured,” he said.
He called on citizens to support security agencies by providing credible information and reporting suspicious activities promptly, stressing that the fight against insecurity requires collective effort.
“This challenge is a Nigerian challenge; it is not only the Armed Forces’ challenge. Other security agencies are also working in synergy with us,” he noted.
Musa also congratulated the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, assuring him of the military’s readiness to strengthen collaboration with the police in tackling insecurity. He further appealed to the media to exercise caution in reporting security matters, warning that sharing terrorists’ videos and propaganda materials could help amplify their objectives.
“Please do not allow your platforms to be used to spread terrorism. When you circulate their videos and messages, you allow them to shine and use them as propaganda against our troops,” he said.
“We want to assure Nigerians that they should remain confident and determined. When you see something going wrong, do not hesitate to report it. Action will be taken as quickly as possible,” he added.
His comments come amid recent coordinated attacks by terrorists on several military bases, which led to the deaths of soldiers and commanding officers who were killed while confronting the attackers.
