The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), has directed security personnel deployed for counter-terrorism and anti-banditry operations to take decisive action against armed criminals whenever confronted, warning that any operative who refuses to act under the guise of awaiting orders would be treated as aiding the enemy.
Musa gave the directive on Wednesday in Sokoto during the commissioning of security assets procured by the Sokoto State Government to strengthen operations against banditry, terrorism, kidnapping and other violent crimes in the state.
Speaking at the event, the minister said troops and other security personnel already deployed to the field do not need further instructions before confronting terrorists and bandits.
“Once you are deployed, do not wait for any order from anybody to shoot any bandit or any terrorist,” he said.
“Anybody who refuses to shoot or kill any bandit or terrorist in the name of waiting for an order, we will treat you like a bandit. This is a general order.”
The directive came as the Sokoto State Government unveiled a ₦27.6 billion security intervention package comprising armoured personnel carriers, tactical vehicles and 300 motorcycles.
The equipment was commissioned at the Giginya Memorial Stadium in the presence of senior military officers, security chiefs, traditional rulers, government officials and residents.
Governor Ahmed Aliyu said the procurement represented one of the largest security investments by the state government and was aimed at improving the operational capacity of security agencies.
According to him, the intervention forms part of his administration’s broader strategy to restore peace and protect lives and property, especially in border communities and rural areas affected by insecurity.
Aliyu said security remains the foundation for sustainable development, adding that economic growth, agriculture and social progress cannot thrive in an atmosphere of fear and instability.
He noted that the newly acquired armoured vehicles and motorcycles would improve rapid response, intelligence gathering, surveillance and troop mobility, particularly in difficult terrains where bandits and terrorists operate.
The governor appreciated President Bola Tinubu, the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their continued support in the fight against insecurity.
He pledged that the Sokoto State Government would continue to invest in measures that complement federal security efforts.
Aliyu also commended Musa for his leadership and commitment to the fight against terrorism and banditry.
In recognition of the minister’s contributions to national security, the governor inaugurated a major road in the Sokoto metropolis and named it General Christopher Musa Road.
Responding, Musa praised the Sokoto State Government for prioritising security, describing the investment as a demonstration of visionary leadership and commitment to public safety.
The Defence Minister said the fight against insecurity requires collaboration among the federal, state and local governments, as well as active support from citizens.
He noted that the newly commissioned assets would enhance operational effectiveness and boost the morale of security personnel deployed across Sokoto State and the wider North-West region.
Musa urged residents to continue providing credible intelligence to security agencies, stressing that community participation remains vital to detecting and responding to emerging threats.
He assured Nigerians that the Armed Forces remain committed to eliminating criminal elements and restoring lasting peace across the country.