By Milcah Tanimu
Abuja — Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, revealed on Tuesday that Boko Haram members held in prisons continue to carry out criminal operations with the assistance of some prison warders. The disclosure came during a sectoral debate with service chiefs in the House of Representatives, addressing the challenges faced by security agencies.
While debriefing Boko Haram elements in the North-East, General Musa highlighted their confessions regarding planning operations and transferring funds from prisons through the aid of certain warders. The revelation adds a layer of complexity to ongoing efforts to combat insurgency and terrorism.
In addition to the prison-related challenges, General Musa lamented the under-funding of the Armed Forces, citing the impact of the high dollar rate on the purchase of essential equipment needed to address insecurity. He emphasized the need to leverage emerging military technologies, such as artificial intelligence and robotics, to enhance the capabilities of the Armed Forces.
The service chiefs collectively identified good governance as a critical factor in reducing insecurity. They emphasized that security forces alone cannot provide a comprehensive solution, and the cooperation of citizens is vital. Delays in prosecution, challenges in the South-East, and complexities in targeting terrorists among the populace were also discussed.
Meanwhile, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, outlined challenges faced by the Nigerian Air Force, including the rising cost of aviation fuel and delays in releasing funds for procurement. Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, highlighted the difficult operating environment for the police, inadequate manpower, and challenges in funding and equipment.
Minister of State, Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, assured that the insecurity bedeviling the country would soon be over. He mentioned the procurement of helicopters and other fighting equipment as part of the government’s efforts.
As the nation grapples with these security challenges, calls for a national emergency on kidnappings have been made by the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA). The group advocates for legislative measures to address kidnapping, emphasizing the need for a unified approach across federal and state levels.
The insights shared during the sectoral debate provide a comprehensive overview of the multifaceted nature of Nigeria’s security concerns and the strategies being considered to overcome them.