President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently convened a crucial meeting with the Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, and Service Chiefs at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. This high-level gathering, which included the Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Bello, addressed the pressing issue of renewed attacks on military formations and escalating security concerns across the nation. The two-hour meeting, notable as the first with Disu in attendance as the Inspector-General of Police, occurred amidst heightened security challenges, particularly following the tragic killings of military commanding officers in various theatres of operation. Specific incidents such as the attack on Ngoshe in Borno State, which led to abductions, and separate assaults on Konduga, underscored the urgency of the discussions. President Tinubu had previously affirmed his administration’s unwavering resolve to defeat terrorism, stating unequivocally, “Nigeria will defeat terrorism despite these attacks. We will not bow to insurgents.”

The meeting with President Tinubu was held barely 24 hours after the Minister of Defence had himself met with Service Chiefs at the Headquarters of the Ministry of Defence. This earlier gathering saw the attendance of key military leaders, including the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Olufemi Oluyede, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, the Chief of Air Staff, Sunday Aneke, an Air Marshal, the Chief of Naval Staff, Idi Abass, a Vice Admiral, and representatives of the National Intelligence Agency, among others. During this preliminary session, the Defence Minister had disclosed that the security hierarchy had agreed to review their strategies for combating terrorists, acknowledging that the military had recorded some casualties in the ongoing fight.

Following the comprehensive security briefing with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, General Christopher Musa, the Minister of Defence, provided an update to Nigerians, assuring them that terrorists and bandits are incurring heavier casualties in the ongoing military operations nationwide. He clarified what he described as “slanted reports” often circulated by the media, emphasizing the need to present accurate information. Musa stated, “Contrary to what you may read or hear, the terrorists and bandits are taking more casualties. Their commanders are being killed every day. We are confident of victory.” While acknowledging the regrettable losses of courageous officers and men, he unequivocally stressed the armed forces’ profound and continued commitment to safeguarding national security.

Furthermore, Minister Musa revealed that President Tinubu has pledged to provide new equipment to significantly enhance the capabilities of the armed forces, a commitment that instills greater confidence in their pursuit of victory. He also made a direct appeal to the Nigerian populace, urging them to remain resilient and not succumb to discouragement. Musa advised against drawing conclusions solely from certain news reports, highlighting that such reports often fail to capture the full scope of the situation, which indicates that terrorists and bandits are indeed suffering more substantial setbacks.