Bola Ahmed Tinubu received a briefing from security authorities on Thursday regarding the nation’s ongoing military operations against bandits and terrorists.
The gathering, which took place in the Presidential Villa in Abuja, took place in the midst of fresh terrorist attacks in northern Nigeria, which included assaults on military installations and the deaths of numerous troops and high-ranking officials.
Christopher Musa, the Minister of Defense, told State House reporters during the private meeting that the briefing enabled the military to give the president a current evaluation on ongoing security operations.
Musa stated, “The purpose of the meeting was for the services to brief Mr. President on the current situation on ground.”
“You are aware that there have been several attacks, and the security forces have responded appropriately.”
Following allegations that terrorists believed to be members of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) had escalated attacks in the northeast, a security briefing was held.
At least three senior military officers and a number of soldiers were reportedly killed in insurgent attacks within the past week.
More than five military installations in Borno State and Yobe State were allegedly attacked by the jihadists.
The military said that many of the assaults were repelled by troops, despite the fact that they inflicted damage and deaths.
Musa stated that addressing what he called erroneous assessments of the security situation was another goal of the meeting.
“The interpretation hasn’t always been very clear, especially when it comes to the media. We thought it was important to correct the record,” he stated.
He praised President Tinubu for continuing to assist the military and other security organizations fighting insurgency.
Despite recent allegations of attacks, the defense chief asked Nigerians not to give up.
“We urge Nigerians to avoid fatigue and discouragement. Sometimes, when you hear the news, you assume that’s all that’s going on, but that’s not the case at all,” he remarked.
He claims that during current operations, security personnel have severely wounded terrorists and robbers.
Musa said, “The terrorists and bandits are taking more casualties, and their commanders are being killed.”
Musa admitted that some military members had perished during missions, despite the documented victories.
Many brave officers and men have been lost. It is very unfortunate,” he remarked.
However, he reassured Nigerians that the military is still dedicated to bringing peace and stability back to the entire nation.
“We want to reassure Nigerians of our commitment to ensure that Nigeria is safe and secure,” he stated.
The Defense Chief Additionally, staff revealed that President Tinubu had authorized the purchase of more armaments to bolster the battle against banditry and terrorism.
Musa stated, “Mr. President has promised more equipment for us to be able to prosecute the war effectively.”
In order to combat new threats, he continued, the military had already modified its operating plans.
Musa claims that rebels frequently step up their attacks during the holy month of Ramadan because they think their deeds will bring them spiritual blessings.
But he claimed that in response, the military had changed its strategy and put more pressure on the rebels.
“We have taken over multiple locations and neutralized some of their commanders in the last few days,” he said.
The head of defense emphasized that security services were cooperating to bring about enduring peace.
He declared, “We are working as a team, and we are confident we will succeed.”
Nuhu Ribadu, Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu, Chief of Air Staff Sunday Aneke, Chief of Naval Staff Idi Abbas, and Chief of Defense Intelligence Emmanuel Undiandeye were among those in attendance.
Mohammed Mohammed, the director general of the National Intelligence Agency, and Oluwatosin Ajayi, the director general of the State Security Service, were also there.
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