Precision Strikes Technical, Not Political — Fagbemi

A political scientist and national security scholar, Dr Kunle Fagbemi, has urged Nigerian security authorities to exercise greater caution and professionalism in intelligence and information management, particularly in matters relating to precision military operations.

Speaking on Arise News’ Morning Show on Monday, Fagbemi said he had previously warned that the National Security Adviser must be mindful of how the office plays its role, especially in coordinating sensitive security information.

He noted that during a 2024 bi-national commission meeting between Nigeria and the United States, several critical issues were raised, adding that officials involved in information management within the Presidency should revisit the report of that conference to fully understand the current concerns.

According to him, discussions around precision strikes are often misunderstood by the public and the media.

He explained that such operations involve multiple layers of technical and strategic planning.

“First, the munitions must strike the exact coordinates that have been accurately determined. Second, consideration must be given to fuel components or materials that may drop as debris along the trajectory, ensuring they do not cause unintended harm,” he said, stressing that this complexity is what defines a strike as “precision.”

Fagbemi argued that under ideal circumstances, the Defence Information Management System should have proactively engaged media editors to properly brief them on these technical realities.

He expressed sympathy for Major General Eneche (rtd.), the Foundation Director of the Defence Information Management System, noting that without adequate background briefings, journalists are left with asking the wrong questions.

He maintained that it is premature to demand detailed disclosures about the impact or success of such operations, saying assessments must first be concluded before any meaningful information can be shared with the public.

Fagbemi added that the current controversy was triggered by comments made by US President Donald Trump, who released certain information as part of his accountability to the American system and his communication with US troops.

“His troops must be assured that command-and-control information is clear, that liabilities are understood, and that ultimate responsibility is taken at the highest level,” he explained.