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From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
Former Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lt Gen Tukur Yusuf Buratai has highlighted the Boko Haram crisis and other security challenges in the Lake Chad region as significant threats to the stability of neighbouring countries.
Buratai, who also served as the Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, emphasized that insecurity in the Lake Chad Region is a critical issue requiring serious attention from Nigeria, given the wide-ranging consequences of instability within the country.
In a statement released by his Media Aide, Ibrahim Dahiru Danfulani, shortly after Buratai’s remarks in Maiduguri, the former Army Chief called for a comprehensive strategy to address insecurity and violent crimes in the country through non-kinetic operations. This statement followed Buratai’s lead paper presentation at the 1st International Conference on Insecurity, Reconstruction, Resettlement and Rehabilitation in the Lake Chad Region, organized by the Department of History and Strategic Studies, University of Maiduguri.
“Security challenges in the Lake Chad Region and the Sahel are a critical issue demanding serious attention from Nigeria, considering the wide range of consequences of instability in Nigeria,” Buratai stated.
He emphasized the interconnected nature of security challenges in the region, noting that unrest in one country can easily spread to neighbouring nations.
“For decades, Lake Chad Basin countries have grappled with various forms of insecurity including banditry, abductions, highway robbery, and cattle rustling, among other challenges. In addition, the most significant security challenge facing the Lake Chad Basin remains the Boko Haram crisis,” Buratai said.
He acknowledged the complexity and challenges of counterinsurgency operations, emphasizing the need for strategic planning, coordination, and commitment.
“The military operation is quite fundamental as it is a coordination of all the stakeholders. We give kudos to all of them for their job so far. They have done quite well, but we believe it should not be prolonged beyond necessary,” Buratai added.
He advocated for strengthening the Nigerian Police Force, suggesting an increase in personnel, improved welfare packages, and a focus on non-kinetic operations.
“If the Police is properly positioned and motivated with a good welfare package, in addition to an increase in the number, they would be able to cope with emerging threats. If we follow the UN standard of 400 citizens to a policeman, you would see a great difference, but with what we have, you discover that our capacity is still way below standard,” he said.
Buratai also recommended increasing the strength of the Armed Forces, acknowledging the evolving nature of security threats.
“We also recommend an increase in the strength of the Armed Forces because the challenges back in the 60s and 70s are not the same now as they have evolved over time. We need more aggressive action to secure our borders and defend our territorial integrity,” he stated.
He emphasized the importance of a comprehensive approach to counterinsurgency, highlighting the need for long-term perspectives, understanding of local contexts, and effective cooperation among stakeholders.
“It is essential to understand that tackling insurgencies around the world is a formidable task that demands unwavering determination and a comprehensive approach. While the road ahead may be arduous and difficult, it is crucial to note that success is achievable with the right level of dedication and resolve,” Buratai said.
He further stressed the need to address the root causes of insurgency, stating that “Counterinsurgency operations demand a long-term perspective, a deep understanding of the local context and effective cooperation among various stakeholders with a clear vision and a collective will to address the root causes of insurgency. It is indeed possible to counter such threats and restore security and stability in volatile regions.”
Buratai addressed the challenges of achieving lasting peace in post-insurgency Northeast Nigeria, acknowledging the complexities and varying perspectives on the possibility of achieving lasting peace.
“Long-lasting peace in post-insurgency Northeast Nigeria remains a complex and challenging endeavour with varying perspectives on whether it is a mirage or attainable goal, however, assessing the problems and prospects will lead us to find lasting solutions to insecurity, peace and of course development in the region,” he said.
He highlighted the importance of rebuilding trust and fostering reconciliation among communities, recognizing the deep scars left by years of conflict.
“The region has been plagued by years of conflict and violence resulting in widespread devastation and human suffering that has left deep scars in the hearts of the affected communities. Rebuilding trust among communities and fostering reconciliation are critical components in achieving lasting peace that can heal the wounds of the past,” Buratai stated.
He commended the Borno State government for its ongoing reconstruction, resettlement, and development efforts.
“I commended the Borno State government for the ongoing reconstruction, resettlement and development that are ongoing. We have seen deliberate efforts which have been very successful, resettlement, development and so on. Rehabilitation of the former terrorists and so on,” the statement concluded.
