Rita Odafe
General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, has announced that around 200,000 former terrorists in the North-East have surrendered to the military.
This milestone results from various military strategies, both active and supportive, employed by the Nigerian Armed Forces.
During the Security and Justice Symposium held in Abuja, co-hosted by the National Security Adviser’s office and the British High Commission, General Musa highlighted the critical role of justice, equity, and accountability in solving security issues. He emphasized that lasting peace hinges on resolving root socio-economic problems.
Musa pointed out that non-kinetic tactics like better communication and community outreach have effectively encouraged many individuals to abandon terrorism. Nevertheless, he pointed to ongoing issues, including the continued threat from improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and the logistical networks that sustain terrorist operations.
“We’ve realized that denying terrorists their logistics and financial oxygen significantly weakens them,” Musa stated, noting that innovative and collaborative methods are crucial for effectively countering insurgency.
The symposium featured discussions among military leaders, law enforcement, human rights advocates, and civil society representatives. They centered on enhancing cooperation between military and law enforcement, improving civilian safety, and ensuring accountability in counterterrorism strategies.
National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu emphasized the importance of collaboration, reinforcing legal frameworks, and protecting civilians as key objectives of the symposium. Richard Montgomery, the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, praised the nation’s efforts in melding civil and military collaboration while prioritizing human rights in its fight against insurgency.
Montgomery indicated that aligning military strategy with international humanitarian law and human rights principles is vital and suggested that Nigeria’s experience could offer lessons for global security practices.
The symposium highlighted the necessity for comprehensive and coordinated actions to address Nigeria’s intricate security challenges, with a strong emphasis on justice and accountability.
