Defence Chief identifies informants, others as key threats in counter-insurgency war
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has identified the critical role of informants and logistics as significant obstacles to Nigeria’s ongoing counter-insurgency operations.
Speaking at a two-day Security and Justice Symposium organised by the National Counter-Terrorism Centre, Musa called for concerted efforts to eliminate these threats, which he described as the “oxygen” of terrorism.
Musa, who addressed security and justice experts, highlighted the persistent challenge posed by Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), commonly used by terrorists.
He revealed that the military was actively exploring innovative ways to neutralize these deadly devices.
“The challenges we face today stem from issues of justice, peace, fairness, equity, and accountability,” the CDS stated. “Without justice, there can be no peace in any society. For us in the Armed Forces, the primary operational challenge has been IEDs. These devices have been a persistent issue since the onset of the insurgency. We are working on solutions to counter this threat effectively.”
He also emphasised the importance of cutting off the logistical support that fuels terrorist operations, particularly from informants.
“Informants and logistics are pivotal to the terrorists’ operations. Denying them logistical support and funding is critical. During my tenure as theatre commander in the Northeast, we found that cutting off these logistics significantly weakened the insurgents. This strategy led to the surrender of nearly 200,000 individuals,” Musa revealed.
Musa stressed that replicating this strategy nationwide would yield excellent results, calling for greater collaboration among all security agencies to dismantle terrorist networks.
He also called on citizens to support the military’s efforts, citing the need for effective strategic communication to build trust and avoid miscommunication, which the enemy could exploit.
“We cannot achieve this alone. Citizens must be sensitised, which requires effective strategic communication,” Musa added.
“Miscommunication can skew public perception, even when the right actions are being taken. We must address this challenge if we are to succeed.”
The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, supported Musa’s call for greater collaboration.
He described the symposium as a crucial platform for evaluating institutional practices and establishing mechanisms to enhance security operations.
Ribadu also stressed the importance of tackling IEDs and strengthening the relationship between military operations and law enforcement agencies to protect civilians.
“We aim to foster a safer and more just society by strengthening cooperation among security agencies,” Ribadu said. “This unified approach will help tackle the growing threats posed by IEDs and terrorism.”
Also, The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, praised the Nigerian government’s adoption of both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies in the fight against terrorism.
He commended General Musa’s focus on civil-military collaboration, acknowledging Nigeria’s leadership in security matters across the continent.
