Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa has stated that terrorist attacks across Nigeria have intensified as a result of escalating insurgent activities in the Sahel region and the country’s porous borders.
Musa made the remarks on Friday following a high-level security meeting with President Bola Tinubu, the nation’s security chiefs, and the Inspector-General of Police at the State House, Abuja.
The defence chief acknowledged the recent surge in insurgent attacks in northern Nigeria, including assaults on military bases, attributing the escalation to external pressures from jihadist groups operating in the wider Sahel region.
“What has happened of recent is the global push by terrorists and jihadists all over the Sahel area, and that pressure is what came into Nigeria because of the nature of our borders,” Musa told journalists after the meeting.
He noted that the country’s porous borders have allowed terrorist elements to infiltrate, adding that President Tinubu was fully briefed on the situation and has issued directives to the service chiefs on how to respond.
“The president is concerned about what is happening, and we have reassured him that we are on top of our game. We are working extremely very hard,” he said.
Musa stated that the meeting comprehensively reviewed the security situation across Nigeria and that steps have been taken to strengthen ongoing military operations nationwide.
He added that all operational theatres have received upgrades, with new equipment deployed to boost capabilities.
“Mr President has also given us much approval for air access and other aspects of security,” he added.
He also disclosed that President Tinubu is working closely with state governors to secure broader support in tackling insecurity and restoring peace across all regions.
“We are working together as a team to make sure that Nigeria is peaceful. That is our mandate,” Musa stated.
He called for public cooperation, warning against the circulation of fake news and misleading videos about insurgent attacks.
“You always wonder why some individuals feel happy when things go bad in their country. If Nigeria is destroyed, all of us will go down,” he said.
Musa appealed to Nigerians to report suspicious activities or misconduct by security personnel, assuring that prompt action would be taken in response to credible reports.
“If you see something going wrong anywhere in the country, report it to us and action would be taken. If you see our personnel doing what they are not supposed to do, report them.”
He affirmed that while the federal government was investing significant effort in combating insecurity, state and local governments must also play their part in ensuring national stability.