Sokoto, Nigeria — The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, has directed frontline troops and other security personnel deployed in conflict areas to immediately engage armed bandits and terrorists on sight, stressing that operatives no longer need to wait for additional authorization before neutralizing identified threats.
The Minister gave the directive during the commissioning of security equipment in Sokoto State, where he emphasized that troops already deployed to operational theatres have the mandate to protect themselves and vulnerable communities by taking decisive action against armed criminals.
According to him, any security operative who hesitates to engage armed bandits or terrorists under the pretext of awaiting further orders will be investigated and treated as an accomplice to criminal elements.
General Musa said the directive is aimed at strengthening ongoing counterterrorism and anti-banditry operations by ensuring that security personnel respond swiftly to threats without unnecessary delays.
He also announced a strategic shift in military operations, revealing that soldiers will gradually be withdrawn from routine checkpoint duties to concentrate on offensive operations targeting terrorist and bandit hideouts. Routine checkpoint and traffic enforcement responsibilities, he said, will increasingly be handled by the Nigeria Police Force.
The Defence Minister expressed confidence that the new operational approach would enhance the effectiveness of security forces in tackling insecurity and restoring peace in affected communities across the country.
