The Nigerian government has announced a major breakthrough in the fight against terrorism, reclaiming several local government areas previously under Boko Haram’s control.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, revealed this on Thursday in Abuja while receiving the leadership of the Fellowship of Churches of Christ in Nigeria, also known as Tarayyar Ekklesiyoyin Kristi A Nigeria (TEKAN). The delegation, led by TEKAN President, Rev. Joel Stephen Billi, visited Akume to discuss national security and other pressing concerns.
According to a statement by Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations in the SGF’s office, Akume emphasized that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has significantly reinforced the armed forces to confront insurgency head-on.
Tinubu’s Firepower Boost
The SGF highlighted the government’s renewed focus on national security, stating that President Tinubu has increased military firepower to restore peace across troubled regions.
“There is no way a government can function effectively without peace. That is why we put emphasis on security,” Akume said. “President Muhammadu Buhari did a lot in this regard, but there were areas that still needed attention. It became the responsibility of the Tinubu-led administration to step in forcefully, and we have done so by empowering our armed forces to reclaim territories lost to Boko Haram.”
Akume stressed that reclaiming these areas marks significant progress in the country’s battle against insurgency, with the government determined to sustain its momentum.
Church Leaders Laud Tinubu’s Efforts
Rev. Billi, while addressing the SGF, praised the government’s recent actions, particularly the passage of the North Central Development Commission (NCDC) Bill into law.
“We are grateful to President Tinubu for signing the NCDC Bill, which will address some of the challenges facing our region,” Billi said. He also urged the federal government to intensify security measures and provide economic relief for struggling Nigerians.
Akume acknowledged the Church’s role in fostering national unity and development, especially in the areas of education and healthcare. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to collaborating with religious institutions in promoting peace and stability.
Government’s Strategy in Counterterrorism
The government’s push against insurgency comes as security analysts note an increase in military operations targeting Boko Haram strongholds. Recent successes, including the recapture of local governments once occupied by insurgents, signal a shift in the fight against terrorism.
While the exact number of reclaimed areas was not disclosed, security sources indicate that military offensives have intensified across the Northeast, with coordinated airstrikes and ground operations dislodging militants.
For many Nigerians, this development brings a glimmer of hope after years of suffering under Boko Haram’s brutality. Residents of formerly occupied towns have long pleaded for government intervention to restore security and essential services.
As the Tinubu administration continues to strengthen Nigeria’s defense capabilities, the battle against insurgency remains a top priority. However, analysts warn that sustaining these gains requires consistent military efforts, intelligence gathering, and community support.
