Details Emerge From Defence Minister Musa’s Meeting With Service Chiefs in Abuja

The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa, on Wednesday said terrorists and bandits operating across Nigeria have suffered heavier losses than government troops, as the Armed Forces intensify operations across various conflict zones.

Speaking after a brief strategy meeting with service chiefs in Abuja, Musa assured Nigerians that the military remains committed to restoring peace and security across the country.

According to him, the meeting was convened to review ongoing military strategies in different operational theatres nationwide.

“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.

The defence minister acknowledged that the military had suffered casualties in recent operations but stressed 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.

Musa 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 also called on citizens to support security agencies by providing credible information and promptly reporting suspicious activities.

“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 further congratulated the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, assuring him of the military’s readiness to strengthen collaboration with the police in tackling insecurity.

The minister also appealed to the media to exercise caution in reporting security matters, warning that sharing terrorists’ videos and propaganda materials could advance 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.

He expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, the National Assembly and state governors for their continued support to the armed forces, expressing optimism that the country would overcome its security challenges.

“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.

The defence minister also warned individuals providing information or logistical support to terrorists that they would be treated as accomplices.

“A friend of a thief is always a thief. Those supporting these criminals with information or logistics will be dealt with the same way we deal with the terrorists,” he said.

In recent weeks, terrorists have launched coordinated attacks on several military bases, leading to the deaths of soldiers and commanding officers who died while confronting the attackers.