FG Gives Security Agencies Free Hand to Go After Terrorist Sponsors

The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), has issued a stern warning to Nigerians and other residents who provide support to terrorists, bandits, insurgents, and other criminal elements, urging them to desist immediately or face decisive action from the state.

Speaking in Abuja during activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance celebrations, the Defence Minister said the Federal Government has given security agencies a clear and firm mandate to go after anyone found aiding or collaborating with criminal groups threatening Nigeria’s peace and stability.

General Musa stressed that individuals who supply information, logistics, shelter, funding, or any form of assistance to criminal elements would no longer be treated as passive observers but as active collaborators.

Anyone who supports terrorists, bandits, or insurgents in any way should know that they are part of the crime. A friend of a thief is a thief,” the minister said.

He noted that insecurity in the country cannot be successfully tackled without addressing the role of local collaborators and sponsors, whom he described as a major obstacle to national security efforts.

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According to the Defence Minister, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ending terrorism, banditry, and insurgency across the country, giving security agencies the authority to act swiftly and decisively within the law.

He assured Nigerians that the Armed Forces and other security agencies are fully committed to protecting lives and property, adding that ongoing operations across various regions are yielding results.

General Musa also called on law-abiding citizens to support security agencies by providing credible and timely intelligence, stressing that community cooperation remains critical in winning the fight against insecurity.

Security is everyone’s responsibility. Nigerians must speak up and report suspicious activities. Silence only empowers criminals,” he said.