Increased terrorist attacks: We are in control––Defence Minister

Crime Diary, Politics

ABUJA, NIGERIA (Agency Report) — March 11, 2026 —Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, retired Gen. Christopher Musa, says the country’s military maintains control over insecurity despite renewed terrorist attacks in the North East.

Musa gave the assurance on Wednesday in Abuja after a strategic meeting with Service Chiefs to review operational strategies nationwide. He said the meeting assessed the current security situation and strengthened efforts to defeat terrorists and other criminal elements.

“We had a quick meeting to review our strategy in all theatres. We are aware of the issues, but I assure Nigerians the Armed Forces are working tirelessly to keep the country safe,” he said.

Advertisement

The minister acknowledged military casualties but stressed terrorists and bandits were suffering heavier losses. “We know we have suffered some casualties, but terrorists and bandits are taking more. We are eliminating their commanders and destroying assets,” he added.

Musa urged Nigerians to support the Armed Forces, warning that tackling insecurity required a whole-of-government and society approach. He cautioned against false information on social media, noting that misinformation could undermine security efforts and troop morale.

He appealed to media organisations to avoid amplifying terrorist propaganda through videos and materials produced by criminal groups. “When you use their videos and pictures, you give them the opportunity to shine and demoralise our troops,” he said.

Musa further urged citizens to report suspicious activities, warning that those aiding terrorists would be treated as accomplices. He thanked President Bola Tinubu for supporting the Armed Forces and congratulated the new Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, assuring him of strong collaboration.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the meeting comes amid a resurgence of attacks in the North East. The military has lost personnel in recent days while eliminating scores of terrorists and their commanders. (NAN).