President Bola Tinubu has called for an aggressive and proactive approach by the Nigerian military in the fight against terrorism and banditry, urging them to take the battle directly to the camps of criminals, particularly in the Northwest region, where insecurity has escalated.
The President’s strong directive came in response to the tragic loss of six soldiers during a terrorist attack on a military base in Damboa, Borno State, on January 4, 2025. In the wake of the attack, which saw the armed forces sustain significant casualties, Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over the soldiers’ loss, acknowledging their ultimate sacrifice in defense of Nigeria’s sovereignty.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of our fallen heroes whose lives were cut short while defending our beloved country. Their bravery and commitment will always be remembered and honored,” President Tinubu said in a statement released by Bayo Onanuga, his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy.
A Call for Justice and a Show of Strength
Following the attack, President Tinubu made it clear that the military’s response, particularly by the air force, had been swift and decisive. He lauded the retaliatory airstrikes that targeted the terrorists attempting to flee after the attack. These air raids resulted in the destruction of several terrorist assets and the neutralization of many insurgents.
“The air component’s timely action in neutralizing terrorists and destroying their assets highlights the professionalism and readiness of our military. This response is a clear demonstration that we are prepared to confront and defeat any threat to Nigeria’s security,” Tinubu remarked.
The President’s emphasis on the importance of continued and intensified military actions, particularly in the Northwest, where banditry and terrorism have destabilized communities, reflected his growing concern over the safety of innocent civilians. In his statement, he urged that the military take the fight to the terrorists’ and bandits’ strongholds, where they continue to perpetrate violence against vulnerable citizens.
“I commend the swift response of the armed forces, but we must do more. I call on our military leaders to ensure that we carry the war to the very camps of these criminals. The people of the Northwest deserve peace, and we must eradicate these elements who continue to endanger their lives,” Tinubu asserted.
The Northwest – A Region in Crisis
The Northwest has long been a hotspot for terrorist and bandit attacks, with armed groups targeting villages, killing civilians, and kidnapping for ransom. The military has been engaged in ongoing operations to restore peace to the region, but the battle remains difficult due to the insurgents’ use of rugged terrain, and their ability to blend into civilian populations.
In recent months, the Northwest has witnessed a series of violent clashes between the military and armed groups. Despite significant casualties on both sides, the insurgents have shown little sign of slowing down. President Tinubu’s call for a more aggressive strategy signals a shift in tactics, emphasizing the need to bring the fight directly to the enemy’s camps, where they operate with impunity.
Security analyst Amina Suleiman, who has closely monitored the activities of terrorist groups in Nigeria, believes that Tinubu’s directive could be a turning point in the war against insurgency. “The insurgents have long enjoyed the freedom to operate from their safe havens in the Northwest. By focusing military efforts on these locations, President Tinubu is sending a strong message that we will no longer allow these groups to dictate the terms of the conflict. This is the kind of leadership the country needs,” Suleiman said in an interview.
A Grateful Nation’s Support
While the military confronts these threats head-on, Tinubu reassured the armed forces that they have the full backing of the nation. He reaffirmed his commitment to providing the necessary resources for the military to carry out their operations effectively.
“The sacrifices of our men and women in uniform do not go unnoticed. The government stands firmly behind them as they fight to rid our nation of these terrorists and bandits. The Nigerian people are with you, and we will continue to ensure that you have the support you need to succeed,” he said.
Despite the ongoing challenges, the President remains optimistic that Nigeria will emerge victorious in its fight against terrorism and banditry. He urged Nigerians to remain united in their resolve to defeat these threats and ensure a peaceful and prosperous future.
“We must not be discouraged. The road ahead is tough, but with determination, unity, and unwavering resolve, we will defeat these enemies of peace. We owe it to the fallen heroes, their families, and all Nigerians to win this battle,” Tinubu declared.
Military Response and Future Plans
In a related development, the military has indicated plans for further operations in the Northwest as part of its broader strategy to weaken the hold of terrorists and bandits in the region. The Nigerian Army’s spokesperson, Brigadier General Olufemi Akinyemi, confirmed that troops are already engaging in targeted operations aimed at dismantling terrorist and bandit strongholds.
“Our forces are already on the ground, and we are committed to intensifying efforts to clear the region of these criminal elements. The battle will be long, but we are determined to win,” General Akinyemi said in a statement.
The Nigerian military has also vowed to conduct investigations into the circumstances surrounding the attack on the Damboa base to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The military leadership has pledged to ensure that lessons learned from this attack are used to improve operational strategies and enhance security measures for troops in the field.
Moving Forward
As the Nigerian military continues to confront the growing threat of terrorism and banditry, President Tinubu’s call for a more aggressive and proactive stance signals a new phase in the country’s efforts to restore security. While challenges remain, the resolve to eliminate these threats is stronger than ever. With continued support from the government and the Nigerian people, the military’s fight against terrorism and banditry may soon reach a decisive turning point, bringing much-needed peace and stability to the affected regions.
