From Femi Mustapha, in Kaduna
The Nigerian Armed Forces have intensified their efforts against bandits and other criminal elements, with recent operations yielding significant results.
In a series of coordinated airstrikes, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has neutralized dozens of terrorists and bandits across several states, including Borno, Kwara, Katsina, Zamfara, and Kaduna.
These operations, conducted under Operation Hadin Kai and Operation Fatan Yamma, specifically targeted terrorist strongholds, logistics hubs, and weapons storage facilities, delivering a severe blow to the operational capacity of groups such as the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP).
The NAF’s efforts have been complemented by ground operations, with security agencies conducting joint rescue missions to apprehend perpetrators and secure the release of kidnapped victims.
The recent crackdown on bandits and other criminal elements has raised questions about whether these actions are influenced by the U.S. designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC).
While some view this designation as an opportunity for the Nigerian government to address issues of insecurity and corruption, others perceive it as unwarranted external interference in the country’s internal affairs.
Reverend David Ugolor, Executive Director of the Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ), remarked that the CPC designation serves as a wake-up call for the Nigerian government to confront insecurity and corruption. He emphasized that this designation provides the government with a chance to take deliberate steps to address these issues and improve the lives of Nigerians.
In response to these challenges, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj-Gen Markus Kangye, stated that the recent operations were initiated in direct response to escalating threats and hostile actions, or in support of allied forces. Kangye noted that the operations were carried out with “precision, coordination, and a firm commitment to minimizing risks to both our forces and civilians on the ground.”
According to the defence spokesman, operations were conducted under various joint task forces, including Operation Hadin Kai, Operation Fatan Yamma, Operation Enduring Peace, Operation Whirl Stroke, Operation Delta Safe, and Operation Udo Ka.
The Nigerian government has reiterated its commitment to addressing insecurity and corruption and expressed its intention to collaborate with the international community in tackling these issues.
The CPC designation by the U.S. has ignited a national conversation about Nigeria’s challenges with insecurity and corruption. As the situation continues to unfold, Nigerians are hopeful for a breakthrough in the fight against insecurity.
The military’s efforts have yielded significant results, but security concerns remain, as bandits and terrorists continue to adapt to changing circumstances.
Security expert Dr. Gusto Ibrahim opined that the government must sustain its efforts to ensure the safety of citizens and restore peace in affected areas, proving to the public that these ramped-up efforts are not merely a “face-saving” measure.
In recent operations, the Nigerian military has neutralized several terrorists, arrested dozens of suspects, and rescued kidnapped victims. The Defence Headquarters has reported the destruction of 41 illegal refining sites, foiling oil theft worth over N112.1 million, along with the recovery of millions of naira in crude oil and other petroleum products.
However, these military efforts have faced challenges. Sixteen military officers are currently undergoing disciplinary action due to misconduct. The Defence Headquarters has assured Nigerians that these actions are strictly disciplinary and part of routine efforts to maintain order, discipline, and loyalty within the ranks.
Barrister Abdullahi Usman, a legal practitioner based in Kaduna, noted that as Nigeria navigates this complex security landscape, it is clear that the fight against insecurity and corruption is far from over.
Similarly, Mallam Habib Yero of Sabo Gari Central Mosque in Zaria remarked that the government must continue to work tirelessly to address the underlying issues driving these challenges.
He emphasized that doing so will build confidence among Nigerians that there is no need for external intervention to tackle the country’s security challenges.
