By Our Correspondent
National News – President Bola Tinubu has approved the procurement of fresh military hardware to strengthen Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and banditry following renewed attacks on security formations across the country.
The approval came after a high-level security meeting held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where top defence and intelligence chiefs briefed the President on the evolving security situation.
The Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, disclosed that the government remains committed to equipping security forces with modern tools required to defeat insurgent groups.
According to him, the new equipment will support ongoing military operations and improve the effectiveness of troops battling extremist groups, including Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province.
Musa explained that the meeting was convened to provide the President with accurate operational updates amid reports of rising attacks in the Northeast.
He noted that some media reports may not fully reflect the successes recorded by security forces on the battlefield.
In recent weeks, insurgents have intensified attacks on military positions in Borno State, targeting several locations and causing casualties among soldiers and civilians.
The Defence Minister acknowledged the loss of some officers and troops during operations but described their sacrifice as heroic and necessary in the ongoing fight against terrorism.
Despite the recent surge in attacks, Musa insisted that security forces were making progress and inflicting heavy losses on insurgent groups.
He said several terrorist commanders had been eliminated while their assets and hideouts were destroyed during recent operations.
The minister also linked the spike in attacks to the ongoing Ramadan period, explaining that some extremists believe dying during the holy month guarantees spiritual rewards.
However, he stressed that the military had adjusted its operational strategies and was regaining control of affected areas.
Also present at the security meeting were National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and the newly appointed Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu, alongside service chiefs and intelligence heads.
The meeting marked the first major security briefing since Disu assumed office.
Officials expressed confidence that with improved equipment, coordinated strategy and continued government support, Nigeria’s armed forces will overcome the insurgency and restore lasting security across the nation.
