‘Shoot terrorists first; don’t wait for orders,’ defence minister tells troops

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Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (rtd)

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…As Sokoto unveils N27.6bn security arsenal

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…Defence Minister commissions armoured vehicles, motorcycles

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By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto

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The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), on Wednesday directed security personnel engaged in counter-terrorism and anti-banditry operations not to hesitate in confronting armed criminals, warning that any operative who fails to act under the guise of awaiting orders would be treated as aiding the enemy.

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Speaking in Sokoto during the commissioning of security assets procured by the Sokoto State Government, the minister stressed that troops must take decisive action against terrorists and bandits whenever the situation demands.

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“Once you are deployed, do not wait for any order from anybody to shoot any bandit or any terrorist,” he said.

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“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.”

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The directive came as the Sokoto State Government unveiled a N27.6 billion security intervention package comprising armoured personnel carriers, tactical vehicles and 300 motorcycles to strengthen security operations across the state.

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The equipment was commissioned at the Giginya Memorial Stadium by the defence minister in the presence of senior military officers, security chiefs, traditional rulers, government officials and residents.

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Governor Ahmed Aliyu said the procurement represents one of the state’s largest security investments, aimed at enhancing the operational capacity of security agencies in tackling banditry, terrorism, kidnapping and other violent crimes.

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According to the governor, the intervention forms part of his administration’s broader strategy to restore peace and protect lives and property, particularly in border communities and rural areas affected by insecurity.

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He noted that security remains the foundation for sustainable development, adding that economic growth, agriculture and social progress cannot thrive in an atmosphere of fear and instability.

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Aliyu said the newly acquired armoured vehicles and motorcycles would improve rapid response, intelligence gathering, surveillance and troop mobility, especially in difficult terrains.

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He appreciated President Bola Tinubu, the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their continued support in combating insecurity, pledging that the state would sustain investments that complement federal security efforts.

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The governor also commended Gen. Musa for his leadership and commitment to the fight against terrorism and banditry. In recognition of his contributions to national security, Aliyu inaugurated a major road in the Sokoto metropolis and named it General Christopher Musa Road.

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Responding, Gen. Musa praised the Sokoto State Government for prioritising security, describing the investment as a demonstration of visionary leadership and commitment to public safety.

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He said the fight against insecurity requires collaboration among the federal, state and local governments, as well as active support from citizens.

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The defence minister 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.

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He also urged residents to continue providing credible intelligence to security agencies, stressing that community participation remains vital to addressing emerging security threats.

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Musa assured Nigerians that the Armed Forces remain committed to eliminating criminal elements and restoring lasting peace across the country.

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The ceremony ended with the inspection and symbolic handover of the security assets to relevant security agencies, with participants describing the intervention as a major boost to Sokoto State’s security architecture and the national campaign against insecurity.

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