- As Sokoto unveils N27.6bn security arsenal
- Defence Minister commissions armoured vehicles, motorcycles
BY OUR CORRESPONDENT – The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd) has ordered security personnel engaged in counter-terrorism and anti-banditry operations to always confront armed criminals head-on, warning that operatives who fails to act under the guise of awaiting orders would be treated as siding with the enemy.
According to him, troops deployed to conflict zones already carry the full authorization needed to eliminate armed threats to protect themselves and vulnerable communities
General Musa, who spoke in Sokoto during the commissioning of security assets procured by the Sokoto State Government, stated that troops must always take decisive action against terrorists and bandits whenever the situation demands
He said: “Once you are deployed, do not wait for any order from anybody to shoot any bandit or any terrorist. Anybody who refuses to shoot or kill any bandit or terrorist in the name of waiting for an order, we will treat you like a bandit. This is a general order.”
The Minister’s directive came following the unveiling a N27.6 billion security intervention package by the Sokoto State Government, comprising armoured personnel carriers, tactical vehicles and 300 motorcycles to strengthen security operations across the state.
Commissioning the equipment at the Giginya Memorial Stadium in the presence of senior military officers, security chiefs, traditional rulers, government officials and residents, General Musa said hesitation in the face of imminent threats is strictly prohibited among the troops.
General Musa, while commending the Sokoto State Government for prioritising security, described the investment as a demonstration of visionary leadership and commitment to public safety, stressing that the fight against insecurity requires collaboration among the federal, state and local governments, as well as active support from citizens.
He said the newly commissioned assets would enhance operational effectiveness and boost the morale of security personnel deployed across Sokoto State and the wider North-West region.
Urging the public to continually provide credible information to security agencies, the Minister emphasized that robust cooperation and the sharing of actionable intelligence are vital to not only addressing emerging security threats but also completely dismantling criminal networks across the country.
General Musa assured Nigerians of the military leadership’s unbreakable oath to dismantle insurgent networks, purge territories of violence, and systematically restore lasting peace to every corner of the country, adding that this steadfast pledge underscores a high-stakes campaign to reclaim security, fortify national borders, and guarantee absolute safety for all citizens.
In his remarks, Governor Ahmed Aliyu said the procurement represents one of the State’s largest security investments, meant to enhance the operational capacity of security agencies in tackling banditry, terrorism, kidnapping and other violent crimes.
He said the intervention forms part of his administration’s broader strategy to protect lives and property, as well as restore peace, particularly in border communities and rural areas affected by insecurity.
The Governor stated that security remains the foundation for sustainable development, adding that economic growth, agriculture and social progress cannot thrive in an atmosphere of fear and instability.
Aliyu said the newly acquired armoured vehicles and motorcycles would improve rapid response, intelligence gathering, surveillance and troop mobility, especially in difficult terrains.
He praised President Bola Tinubu, the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their continued support in combating insecurity, pledging that Sokoto State would sustain investments that complement federal security efforts.
The governor also lauded General Musa for his leadership and commitment to the fight against terrorism and banditry. Consequently, Governor Aliyu inaugurated a major road in the Sokoto metropolis and named it General Christopher Musa Road, saying it is in recognition of the Defence Minister’s contributions to national security.
The highlight of the event was the official inspection and handover of operational assets to relevant state security agencies with observers noting that this intervention will significantly strengthen the security framework in Sokoto State while also aiding the wider national campaign against insecurity.
