Military eliminating Boko Haram, bandit commanders – Minister of Defence

Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has said that terrorist groups including Boko Haram and armed bandits are suffering significant losses as the military intensifies counter-terrorism operations across northern Nigeria.

The minister made this known on Thursday after a closed-door security meeting with President Bola Tinubu and top security chiefs at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Musa said the purpose of the briefing was to update the president on the current security situation and ongoing military operations.

“There have been a series of attacks, and the security forces have risen to the occasion. We came to brief Mr President so he can better understand what is happening on the ground,” he said.

Musa acknowledged that the military had recently lost some personnel in the fight against terrorism but stressed that insurgents and bandits had suffered greater casualties, including the killing of several of their commanders.

“The terrorists and the bandits are taking more casualties. Their commanders are being killed. We have also lost some very courageous officers and men, which is highly regrettable, but we remain committed to ensuring Nigeria is safe and secure,” he said.

The defence minister revealed that the armed forces have reviewed and adjusted their operational strategies following recent attacks. According to him, troops have already begun reclaiming previously occupied locations and destroying terrorist assets.

“We have adjusted our strategies. In the past few days, we have taken over some locations, killed their commanders, and seized their assets. We will continue to do more,” Musa stated.