The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has raised serious concerns about Nigeria’s security challenges, blaming weak and porous borders for the increasing influx of jihadist fighters from the Sahel region.
After a closed-door meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at Aso Rock Villa, Abuja, on Friday, Gen. Musa revealed that jihadist groups pushed out of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger are crossing into Nigeria, sparking fresh waves of violence, especially in the northern and middle belt regions.
“What has happened recently is that there’s a global push by terrorists and jihadists all over the Sahel area, and that pressure is what actually came into Nigeria because of the porous nature of our borders,” Musa said.
Data shows attacks by jihadist groups like Islamic State Sahel Province and Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin have surged by over 40% since 2023.
These groups have moved southwards, infiltrating states such as Kaduna, Niger, and Plateau, following intensified operations in the Sahel.
Gen. Musa assured Nigerians the military is stepping up its efforts. He said President Tinubu has approved the purchase of new equipment and air assets to boost security operations.
“Our meeting today was to review the entire security situation. The president is concerned about what’s going on, and we reassured him we’re on top of our game. We’re working extremely hard,” Musa explained.
“He directed us to intensify efforts and collaborate with neighboring countries because the porous borders are worsening the situation. All our operations have been enhanced.
“Equipment has been bought. The president approved many air assets and other security measures. It’s not just about direct action; the non-kinetic approach is just as important.”
Gen. Musa also highlighted the need for cooperation with state governors, local governments, and communities to clamp down on insecurity.
“Yesterday, I just came out of Maiduguri to show that we’re working together with all the governors. We cannot do it alone; we need their support. The federal government is doing a lot, but states and communities must also play their part to ensure peace in Nigeria,” he said.
He appealed to Nigerians to be vigilant, report suspicious activities, and warned against fake news, noting many circulating videos are outdated or from other countries.
“It’s important we all cooperate with security agencies. If we see something wrong anywhere, report it; action will be taken, including against personnel who misbehave.
”We appeal to Nigerians not to get tired and to be wary of fake news. Many videos spread are old or from other countries, giving false impressions. You wonder why some people are happy when things go wrong in their country,” the CDS said.
