Troops Turning Tide Against Terrorism, Criminality – Buratai

A former Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt-Gen Tukur Buratai (rtd), has asserted that Nigerian troops are turning the tide against terrorism and criminality across the country in the last few weeks.

He said troops of the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Air Force, working closely together, are hitting the enemies of the nation hard, adding that motivating the soldiers should be a duty for all citizens at all times.

Buratai in a statement on his official social media handle said troops have arrested terrorist informants, intercepted logistics supplies and foiled kidnapping attempts, adding that security forces are everywhere and they are striking when it matters most.

He said, “These successes are the result of better intelligence gathering, improved coordination and the courage of ordinary soldiers.”

He, however, said despite these successes, the fight is not over. “The terrorists and bandits are wounded but still dangerous. This is exactly the time to press harder. The military can not relent and Nigerians can not afford to become complacent.”

Buratai, therefore, called on Nigerians to support our troops.

“Do not believe every negative story or amplify enemy propaganda. Celebrate our troops’ victories, pray for the families of the fallen and encourage our young men and women in uniform,” he said

According to him, the media also has a special responsibility to report successes with the same energy as tragedies.

“Balanced reporting is not just good journalism; it is patriotism,” he said.

The former COAS commended the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Service Chiefs, the Inspector- General of Police and the intelligence chiefs for their excellent leadership, professionalism and the renewed spirit of cooperation we are now seeing across all security agencies.

“The successes in the last week would not have been possible without their commitment. Your intelligence products have been the eyes and ears of operations on the ground,” Buratai said.

He also commended the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Air Force. “Your air-to-ground coordination has been exceptional. Keep the pressure on. Do not allow the enemy to breathe. Every terrorist killed, every bandit arrested and every kidnap victim rescued is a step closer to peace,” he said.