Defence Minister, General Christopher Musa, has directed security operatives not to wait for further instructions before engaging terrorists, bandits and other non-state actors once they are identified.
Musa gave the directive while speaking at the commissioning of newly acquired security equipment in Sokoto State, where he urged troops deployed against criminal groups to take immediate action when confronted with threats.
“Once you are deployed, do not wait for any order from anybody to shoot any bandit or any terrorist,” he said.
“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 comments come as Nigeria intensifies efforts to tackle rising insecurity in the north-west, where armed groups have been responsible for killings, kidnappings, cattle rustling and attacks on farming communities.
Musa spoke during the inauguration of security assets valued at ₦27.127 billion ($16.5 million) procured by the Sokoto State Government to boost operations against criminal elements.
The equipment includes 62 operational vehicles, including armoured personnel carriers and tactical vehicles, as well as 300 motorcycles, bulletproof vests and other security tools designed to improve mobility and response capabilities across the state.
Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu said the investment demonstrated his administration’s commitment to supporting federal security agencies and restoring peace in communities affected by banditry.
“Security remains the foundation for sustainable development,” Aliyu said, stressing that economic growth and agricultural activities cannot thrive without a secure environment.
The governor also announced that a major road in Sokoto metropolis had been named after Musa in recognition of his contributions to the fight against insecurity.
Commending the state government’s investment in security, the defence minister urged authorities to ensure proper maintenance of the newly acquired equipment.
“We will come after one year to see how these equipment are doing,” Musa said.
He also highlighted the need for improved intelligence sharing and stronger collaboration among security agencies, state governments and local communities in the fight against armed groups.
Nigeria continues to face multiple security challenges, including insurgency by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in the north-east, widespread banditry in the north-west and recurring communal conflicts in parts of the country.
