• outlines roadmap to total victory
From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru has declared that Nigeria is turning the tide against insecurity, citing major improvements in safety and community restoration across the country.
This is even as he disclosed that security forces have made significant progress in their ongoing counter-terrorism operations, arresting 13,543 terrorists and bandits while 17,500 suspects have been arrested.
He also reported the successful rescue of 9,821 hostages, whose lives were at risk during the operations and approximately 24,000 terrorists have reportedly surrendered and laid down their arms.
“These aren’t just numbers. These are lives saved, villages reclaimed, and communities restored,” he stressed.
He made the disclosure in an interview for an upcoming State House documentary marking President Bola Tinubu’s second anniversary in office, according to a statement issued by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Badaru highlighted significant military achievements and tangible progress. “For the first time in years, Nigerians can travel the Birnin Gwari to Kaduna road even at midnight. That’s progress. Zaria to Funtua to Gusau is now peaceful, and Abuja-Kaduna road has been largely secured,” Badaru said.
He reiterated that President Tinubu had given a clear order to the military: “End insecurity decisively and do it fast before the end of 2025.” According to Badaru, this directive has energized robust operations such as Operation Fasan Yama and other ongoing military campaigns nationwide.
Badaru noted a remarkable return to normalcy in many parts of the Northeast and Northwest. “Markets are back. Farms are productive again. We’ve seen Fulani, Hausa, and other communities rebuilding trust. The progress is real and visible,” he said.
He also announced a major boost to troop welfare, with President Tinubu approving ₦18 billion to clear insurance arrears and improve conditions for military personnel. “We’ve doubled troop ration allowances from ₦1,500 to ₦3,000. Life insurance now covers all soldiers, and I’ve personally visited frontline bases to hear their concerns and boost morale,” Badaru added.
On the modernization of the armed forces, the minister said, “President Tinubu has not turned down a single request for equipment. We now have attack helicopters, UAVs, MRAPs, APCs, and top-tier weaponry. Our armed forces are better equipped than ever.”
Badaru described the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Bill as a “game-changer,” revealing that over 100 local and international defence partnerships have been signed. “We’re producing ammunition here. Two MRAPs assembled locally are parked outside this office. This is the beginning of true defence independence,” he said.
The minister also reported a significant drop in pipeline vandalism and oil theft in the South-South, with crude oil production rising from 1.4 million to nearly 1.8 million barrels per day. “We’ve arrested six ships, destroyed 2,000 illegal refineries, and dismantled over 5,000 crude oil storage pits,” he disclosed.
Looking ahead, Badaru affirmed, “This President is not making empty promises. He’s building the institutions, the morale, the partnerships, and the firepower to secure Nigeria. We are not relenting. The goal is total victory over insecurity by the end of 2025, and we are on track.”
He called on Nigerians to remain hopeful and united: “Change doesn’t happen overnight, but we’re laying a solid foundation. Neutral observers will tell you that we’ve made real progress. The President’s commitment is unwavering.”