Modern Equipment, Not Mercenaries, Is Key to Defeating Terrorism in Nigeria – Defence Chief Musa
In a recent statement, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, declared that Nigeria does not require mercenaries or foreign troops to combat terrorism effectively. Instead, he emphasized the need for modern equipment and technological advancements to strengthen the country’s armed forces. His remarks came amid increasing concerns about the persistent insurgency in parts of Nigeria, particularly in the Northeast, where groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP have continued to pose security challenges.
General Musa stressed that Nigerian troops are highly trained and capable of handling terrorist threats if provided with the necessary tools. He noted that relying on foreign mercenaries could undermine national sovereignty and morale within the ranks of the military. Instead, he advocated for investments in cutting-edge technology, such as surveillance drones, communication systems, armored vehicles, and advanced weaponry, which would enable more precise and efficient counter-terrorism operations.
“We have the human resources and the skill set; what we lack are some of the modern equipment that can give our troops the edge,” Musa said. He added that modernizing Nigeria’s military assets would enhance intelligence gathering, surveillance, and response capabilities, thereby ensuring more decisive action against terrorists.
His statement also aimed to dispel perceptions that Nigeria’s security forces are incapable of handling internal threats independently. General Musa assured the public that with the right equipment and continuous support from the government and citizens, the Nigerian military can effectively secure the nation.
The Defence Chief’s call for improved resources highlights the growing recognition that successful counter-terrorism efforts rely on technological superiority, efficient logistics, and robust support systems. His appeal comes at a time when many Nigerians are seeking more visible and sustained improvements in national security, particularly in regions still grappling with violence and instability.
This renewed focus on self-reliance through equipment upgrades rather than dependence on foreign entities may bolster confidence in the military’s long-term strategy. It also aligns with broader efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s sovereignty and ensure lasting security solutions driven by local capacity and expertise.
