Security chiefs on Thursday briefed Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the current security situation and ongoing military operations against terrorists and bandits across the country.
The meeting, held at the Presidential Villa Abuja, came amid renewed attacks by terrorists in northern Nigeria, including assaults on military bases and the killing of several soldiers and senior officers.
Speaking with State House correspondents after the closed-door meeting, the Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, said the briefing allowed the armed forces to provide the president with an updated assessment of ongoing security operations.
“The meeting was for the services to brief Mr President on the current situation on ground,” Musa said.
“You know there have been a series of attacks and the security forces have risen to the occasion.”
The security briefing followed reports that terrorists suspected to be members of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) had intensified attacks in the North-East.
In the last week, at least three senior military officers and several soldiers were reportedly killed in attacks carried out by insurgents.
The terrorists were said to have launched assaults on more than five military formations in Borno State and Yobe State.
Although the attacks caused casualties and damage, the military said many of the assaults were repelled by troops.
Musa said part of the purpose of the meeting was also to address what he described as inaccurate interpretations of the security situation.
“Sometimes the interpretation, especially through the media, has not been too direct. We felt we should put the record straight,” he said.
He commended President Tinubu for his continued support of the armed forces and other security agencies involved in the fight against insurgency.
The defence chief urged Nigerians not to lose hope despite recent reports of attacks.
“Our appeal to Nigerians is not to get tired and not to be discouraged. Sometimes, when you hear the news, you think that is all that is happening, but it is far from that,” he said.
According to him, security forces have inflicted heavy casualties on terrorists and bandits during ongoing operations.
“The terrorists and bandits are taking more casualties, and their commanders are being killed,” Musa added.
Despite the successes recorded, Musa acknowledged that some military personnel had died in the course of operations.
“We have lost a number of very courageous officers and men. It is highly regrettable,” he said.
He, however, assured Nigerians that the armed forces remain committed to restoring peace and stability across the country.
He said: “We want to assure Nigerians of our commitment to ensure that Nigeria is safe and secure.”
The Chief of Defence Staff also disclosed that President Tinubu had approved the acquisition of additional equipment to strengthen the fight against terrorism and banditry.
“Mr President has promised more equipment for us to be able to prosecute the war effectively,” Musa said.
He added that the military had already adjusted its operational strategies to counter emerging threats.
According to Musa, insurgents often intensify attacks during the holy month of Ramadan because they believe their actions attract spiritual rewards.
However, he said the armed forces had responded by adapting their tactics and increasing pressure on the insurgents.
“In the past few days we have taken over several locations and neutralised some of their commanders,” he stated.
The defence chief emphasised that security agencies were working collaboratively to achieve lasting peace.
“We are working together as a team, and we are confident we will succeed,” he said.
Those present at the meeting included Nuhu Ribadu, Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu, Chief of Air Staff Sunday Aneke, Chief of Naval Staff Idi Abbas, and Chief of Defence Intelligence Emmanuel Undiandeye.
Also in attendance were the Directors-General of the National Intelligence Agency, Mohammed Mohammed, and the State Security Service, Oluwatosin Ajayi.
