By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), on Wednesday directed members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies to engage and eliminate bandits and terrorists immediately without waiting for additional orders. He gave the directive during the distribution of armoured vehicles to security agencies in Sokoto State, saying the move would strengthen Nigeria’s security operations and protect lives and property.
Defence Minister Issues Strong Warning to Security Personnel
General Musa warned that any security officer who hesitates to confront bandits or terrorists while waiting for orders would face serious consequences.
“I want to reiterate this to all members of the Armed Forces and Security Forces. Once you are deployed, do not wait for any order from anybody to shoot any bandit or any terrorist.
“I want to make that very loud and clear. Anybody who refuses to shoot or kill any bandit or terrorist because he is waiting for an order, we will treat you like a bandit,” he said.
He stressed that every deployed officer has a responsibility to neutralise criminal elements before they inflict harm on innocent citizens.
Armoured Vehicles Must Be Properly Maintained
The Defence Minister urged security agencies to maintain the newly distributed armoured vehicles.
He described the vehicles as strategic national assets purchased with billions of naira from public funds.
“This equipment costs billions of naira that could have been used for other purposes. Instead, the government invested the money to strengthen security.
“We will return after one year to inspect these vehicles. We do not want them abandoned or mishandled. They must serve the purpose for which they were acquired,” he said.
Government Reaffirms Commitment to National Security
General Musa assured residents of Sokoto State and Nigerians that the Federal Government remains committed to defeating insecurity.
He said the government would continue improving the welfare of security personnel.
He also promised greater investment in intelligence gathering, modern technology, operational equipment and stronger collaboration among security agencies.
According to him, professionalism, discipline and intelligence-led operations remain essential to defeating criminal groups.
Community Support Remains Critical
The minister called for stronger cooperation between security agencies and local communities.
He noted that residents often possess valuable intelligence because criminal elements usually operate within local communities.
He urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, community leaders and citizens to support security agencies with credible information.
According to him, criminals will find it increasingly difficult to operate when communities and security institutions work together.
Taxpayers’ Money Must Deliver Results
General Musa reminded security personnel that taxpayers funded the purchase of weapons, armoured vehicles and other operational equipment.
He therefore urged officers to use the equipment effectively to protect lives and property.
“The Federal Government, the state government, the local government and Nigerian taxpayers provided the money used to buy this equipment.
“They were acquired so that you can take down anyone trying to cause mayhem wherever they operate.
“So it is your responsibility to ensure that you take them down and never allow them to take you down,” he said.
He, however, emphasised that military hardware alone cannot guarantee lasting peace.
Instead, he said discipline, effective coordination and intelligence-driven operations remain the foundation of sustainable national security.
