NIGERIA: The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), has issued a strict directive to security personnel involved in counter-terrorism and anti-banditry operations, ordering them to decisively confront armed criminals without waiting for administrative clearance. Speaking in Sokoto State, the minister warned that any operative who fails to engage active threats under the pretext of awaiting orders would be disciplined and treated as an accomplice to the enemy.
The directive was delivered during the official commissioning of a N27.6 billion security intervention package acquired by the Sokoto State Government. Held at the Giginya Memorial Stadium, the event was attended by senior military officials, security chiefs, traditional rulers, and government dignitaries.
The newly procured assets include armoured personnel carriers, tactical vehicles, and 300 motorcycles. Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu stated that the procurement represents one of the state's largest security investments to date. He emphasized that the intervention is designed to enhance the operational capacity, mobility, and rapid-response capabilities of security agencies tackling banditry, terrorism, and kidnapping, particularly within vulnerable rural and border communities. Governor Aliyu noted that restoring stability is an essential prerequisite for economic growth, agriculture, and social development in the region.
Governor Aliyu also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian Armed Forces for their sustained efforts in managing regional instability. In recognition of the defence minister's leadership and service to national security, the governor inaugurated a major metropolitan road in Sokoto, naming it in honor of General Musa.
In response, General Musa commended the Sokoto State Government for its substantial investment in public safety, describing it as a model for state-level support of federal security initiatives. He emphasized that overcoming regional security challenges requires active collaboration among all tiers of government and local communities. The minister concluded by urging residents to assist security forces with actionable intelligence, reiterating the military's commitment to neutralizing criminal elements and restoring long-term peace to the North-West region.