The Defence Headquarters has identified the influx of foreign insurgents as a major cause of the recent surge in terrorist activities in Nigeria’s North East and North West regions. This was disclosed by Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, outgoing Director of Defence Media Operations, during his farewell briefing on Thursday.
In recent weeks, Nigeria has seen an alarming rise in attacks on military installations and civilian areas, prompting heightened concerns over national security. Speaking on the issue, Maj. Gen. Buba linked the resurgence of violence to foreign fighters from the Sahel region who are supporting local terrorist groups.
He explained, “The resurgence in terror attacks can be attributable to the influx of foreign fighters who came in as reinforcements for these terrorists. These foreign fighters are from the Sahelian Region. The other contributing factor is the support from local collaborators who serve as informants, reporting on troops’ movements.”
The general acknowledged the challenges posed by these developments but reassured Nigerians of the military’s commitment to defeating terrorism. According to him, the military’s strategy involves a comprehensive approach aimed at breaking the terrorists’ will to fight.
“We are taking away their most important assets, such as their logistics, administrative and fighting capabilities. And of course, we are applying regional and international pressure, as well as engaging the media. All these combine to destroy the terrorists’ will to fight,” Buba stated.
He also emphasized that the fight against insurgency is a long-term effort that requires endurance and collective responsibility. “Wars are fought and won all over the world by destroying the enemies’ will to fight. And we are bent on achieving just that,” he said.
Buba further urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and united in the fight against terrorism. “Security is everybody’s business. We must not compromise on security, otherwise, we compromise everyone’s security,” he added.
As the briefing concluded, Buba used a popular local phrase to highlight the military’s dedication, saying, “The military dey for you, dey for us.” He called for continued collaboration between the armed forces and the public in the fight against terrorism.
