Rep Agbese Lauds Service Chiefs’ Efforts Against Terrorism, Banditry

The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Hon. Philip Agbese, has lauded the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, and the service chiefs for what he described as tangible and strategic gains in Nigeria’s campaign against terrorism, banditry and other crimes threatening national stability.

Agbese, who represents Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency of Benue State, said the current military leadership has reinvigorated counter-insurgency and counter-banditry operations in a manner that is restoring public confidence.

He insisted that recent calls in some quarters for the removal of the service chiefs were “propaganda warfare” from terrorist networks, designed to demoralise troops and distract the public from ongoing successes.

Speaking with journalists on Thursday at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on his way to an international engagement, the UK-trained lawyer urged Nigerians to resist narratives that weaken the morale of fighting forces.

“The service chiefs have given us clear evidence that Nigeria can win this war. The terrorists and their enablers understand this, so they resort to psychological warfare. Their demand for a change of leadership is not for Nigeria’s benefit — it is a survival tactic for terror,” Agbese said.

He singled out General Musa for praise, pointing to his coordination of joint military operations and his ability to align the different services under a unified counter-terrorism framework.

According to him, the hosting of the African Defence Chiefs’ Summit in Abuja in August was a landmark achievement that showed Musa’s vision extended beyond Nigeria to the continent at large.

“That summit was not just a gathering; it was a statement. Nigeria, under General Musa, showed leadership by convening African militaries to discuss African solutions to African problems,” Agbese said.

Agbese also commended the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, for his determined fight against oil theft, illegal refining, and maritime crime.

He said the Navy’s successes in protecting pipelines and curbing smuggling have translated directly into improved revenue inflows for the government.

“The Chief of Naval Staff has demonstrated uncommon commitment in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain. His leadership in curbing pipeline vandalism, oil theft, and other maritime crimes has not only secured vital national assets but also restored confidence in our waters. Today, illegal oil smuggling is no longer the thriving industry it once was, thanks to his strategic innovations and the dedication of naval officers under his command,” Agbese said.

“By protecting the nation’s blue economy, the Chief of Naval Staff has helped to stabilise government revenue at a time when Nigeria’s economic survival depends on it. His efforts resonate far beyond our shores, earning him respect in the global naval community. I commend him for showing that with vision and discipline, our armed forces can deliver solutions that transform both our economy and our security.”