March 11, (THEWILL) — The Nigerian Armed Forces are making significant progress in the fight against terrorists, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Retd), has said, urging citizens to support security agencies by reporting suspicious activities in their communities.
General Musa made the remarks on Wednesday after a strategy meeting with the Service Chiefs in Abuja, convened to review ongoing military operations across different theatres in the country.
Acknowledging that the military has suffered casualties during recent engagements, Musa emphasized that terrorists and their commanders have borne even heavier losses in coordinated operations by the Armed Forces.
“In recent times, some of our brave soldiers and commanding officers paid the supreme price while confronting terrorists, but we are taking more of their commanders out and neutralizing their assets,” the minister said.
He assured Nigerians that the Armed Forces are working tirelessly to restore peace and security nationwide, adding that all ongoing operations are carefully coordinated to ensure effectiveness and safety.
Musa highlighted the threat of misinformation circulating on social media, warning that false narratives could undermine troop morale. He called on citizens to verify reports before sharing and to assist security agencies with credible intelligence.
“The challenge we face is a Nigerian challenge, not only the Armed Forces’ responsibility. Other security agencies are working in synergy with us to ensure the country is safe,” the Defence Minister said.
He also congratulated the newly appointed Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, pledging the military’s readiness to strengthen collaboration with the police to tackle insecurity across the nation.
The minister urged the media to exercise caution in reporting security matters, noting that circulating terrorist videos or propaganda materials could inadvertently aid insurgents.
“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.
Musa expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Assembly, and state governors for their continued support for the Armed Forces in the fight against terrorism.
He stressed that individuals providing logistics, intelligence, or any form of assistance to terrorists would be treated as accomplices and prosecuted accordingly. “A friend of a thief is always a thief. Those supporting these criminals will be dealt with the same way we deal with terrorists,” he warned.
The Defence Minister reiterated that Nigerians should remain confident in the Armed Forces’ capabilities, noting that prompt reporting of suspicious activities would allow for swift and decisive action. He assured citizens that the military remains vigilant, responsive, and fully committed to ensuring the safety and security of the nation.
Musa urged all Nigerians to stay alert and engaged, emphasizing that the fight against terrorism requires collective effort and the continued vigilance of both security forces and citizens.
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