Nigeria’s War Within: Why Force Alone Can’t Defeat Insecurity

November 2025 As Nigeria prepares to inaugurate a new Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, recently pulled from his position as Chief of Defence Staff, the appointment highlights a familiar pattern: leadership reshuffles and reconfigurations of the security architecture that have so far failed to address the nation’s deepening insecurity. Despite record defence budgets and years of military operations, Nigeria’s war against insurgency, terrorism, and violent crime remains far from won. Behind the official rhetoric of “decisive action” and “renewed hope,” the figures tell a sobering story: the country is spending more on security than ever before, yet becoming less safe. Between May 2023 and April 2024, at least 614,937 Nigerians were reported killed in violence linked to insecurity, according to data from the National Bureau of Statistics and independent research groups. Amnesty International estimates that more than 10,000 people were killed in the northern states alone during that period. Villages have been razed, farmers displaced, and highways turned into hunting grounds for kidnappers. For 2025, the Federal Government earmarked ₦6.57 trillion for defence and security, nearly equivalent to the combined budgets of education, health, and agriculture. Yet insecurity persists. From Boko Haram’s remnants in the northeast to bandits in the northwest and separatist militias in the southeast, violence has become a permanent feature of daily life. Nigeria’s insecurity cannot be solved by military might alone. “Nigeria’s security crisis is systemic, not merely operational,” a recent Counter-Insurgency and Anti-Terrorism Plan notes. “You can suppress conflict with soldiers, but you cannot kill an idea, or desperation, with bullets.” The country’s challenges go beyond insurgents and bandits; they are rooted in economic inequality, governance failures, and social exclusion, problems that no army, no matter how well-funded, can solve. The Price of Peace Without Justice Decades of economic inequality, corruption, and exclusion lie at the heart of the crisis. Wealth and resources are concentrated in the hands of a few, leaving large portions of the population marginalized. Communities excluded from decision-making or denied access to the country’s resources often turn to violence as a form of protest. Other forces exacerbate the problem: mass illiteracy, youth unemployment, religious manipulation, and climate-induced displacement. Across northern Nigeria, desertification has swallowed farmland, forcing herders southward and triggering deadly clashes with farmers. In the mineral-rich central states, illegal mining networks, sometimes backed by foreign interests, have transformed into armed militias. The insecurity is not merely a question of security operations; it reflects a broader governance failure, where political neglect, corruption, and impunity have created fertile ground for violence to thrive. Without addressing these structural issues, any attempt to suppress insurgency with force alone will remain temporary. Spending More, Achieving Less Nigeria’s defence spending has ballooned over the past four years: ₦966 billion in 2021, ₦1.2 trillion in 2022, ₦1.38 trillion in 2023, and now ₦6.57 trillion in 2025. Yet insecurity has worsened. World Bank data shows that the country’s military expenditure has risen faster than that of many African peers, without a corresponding reduction in violence. Bigger budgets have meant more equipment, more contracts, and more commissions, but not necessarily more safety. Observers note that the country continues to fight the same war with the same tactics, expecting different results. High-profile military campaigns have occasionally neutralized specific threats, but the absence of complementary development and governance reforms has allowed insecurity to regenerate. A New Strategy for a Broken Nation Recognizing that force alone cannot deliver security, the counter-insurgency plan advocates a multi-dimensional approach that blends immediate security measures with long-term social, economic, and governance reforms. It is founded on the principle that lasting peace requires both containment of violence and addressing the root causes of unrest. A central feature of the plan is the proposed Geopolitical Security and Development Summit. This high-level forum would bring together the Presidency, service chiefs, and state governors to coordinate priorities, share intelligence, and integrate human capital development into security planning. By aligning national and sub-national efforts, the summit aims to create a cooperative framework in which security operations respond to local realities rather than operating in isolation. Education, rural empowerment, and healthcare are reimagined as tools of national defence rather than afterthoughts. By addressing poverty, unemployment, and social exclusion, the plan seeks to reduce the vulnerabilities that violent actors exploit. Economic opportunities, skill development, and access to services strengthen communities, making them less susceptible to recruitment by insurgents, bandits, or criminal networks. Complementing this is a Stakeholders’ Summit involving religious leaders, traditional rulers, youth organizations, and civic groups. The forum is intended to promote interfaith dialogue, encourage conflict resolution at the community level, and empower citizens to take part in building peace. By fostering trust between communities and the state, the summit aims to prevent minor disputes from escalating into large-scale violence. The plan emphasizes a shift in mindset: security is not just the absence of attacks but the presence of justice, opportunity, and inclusion. “Peace cannot be sustained through force alone,” it stresses. “It must be built on trust, understanding, and shared values.” Military interventions may suppress violence temporarily, but without addressing structural weaknesses, the gains remain fragile. Reforming the Fault Lines Several structural reforms are prioritized in the plan. Modernizing animal husbandry is one key step, including regulated ranching and strict enforcement of anti-open-grazing laws, paired with economic support for pastoralists to prevent marginalization. Illegal mining, now a major source of funding for armed networks, is another critical target. The plan calls for a nationwide crackdown, formalizing artisanal mining into regulated cooperatives while reclaiming illegal mining corridors with security support. Central to all reforms is restoring the rule of law. Impunity has become a pervasive issue in Nigeria, where political influence often shields offenders. The failure to prosecute crime erodes public trust and perpetuates violence. “A nation that does not punish crime inevitably rewards impunity,” the plan notes, emphasizing accountability as a cornerstone of sustainable security. From Force to Fairness At its core, the strategy envisions a paradigm shift in how Nigeria approaches security. True national security is not measured solely by military victories or the neutralization of threats; it

The Misuse of “Genocide” in Nigeria’s Public Discourse

Contextualizing The Horrific Killings in Nigeria Within The International Convention Against Genocide By Wale Alonge Since President Donald Trump’s 2020 threat to “invade Nigeria” to stop what he called “the targeted genocide of Nigerian Christians by Muslims,” the term genocide has gained sudden, viral currency across Nigerian social media. It is now used casually, cavalierly, and often without any understanding of its historical roots or the international legal framework that defines it. When such a morally charged word is used loosely, it dilutes its moral and legal force — and makes enforcement far more difficult in genuine cases of genocide. That is why it is critical to define and apply it precisely, something sorely lacking in Nigeria’s public conversations. It is deeply ironic that the same President Trump who refuses to describe the state-sponsored mass killing, starvation, and displacement of Palestinians in Gaza as genocide was so quick to use the word for Nigeria’s communal violence. I am a Christian, so this is not a case of a non-Christian downplaying the killings of Christians. There is no doubt that many Nigerian Christians have been victims of murderous attacks by Islamist jihadist groups — often targeted specifically in their houses of worship. Only yesterday, reports emerged from Kwara State of Christians being slaughtered and kidnapped in church. But so have Muslims — indeed, in larger numbers according to widely available data — including many attacked in mosques. These killings are largely random, carried out by non-state insurgents and criminal militias using hit-and-run, opportunistic tactics, often also targeting government forces. There is no demonstrated element of state-sponsored intent to destroy a protected group, which is central to any credible genocide claim. What “Genocide” Actually Means The word itself derives from the Greek genos (“tribe” or “race”) and the Latin caedere (“to kill”). Polish lawyer Raphael Lemkin coined it during World War II, and in 1946 the United Nations General Assembly first recognized genocide as an international crime. It was later codified in the 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide. Article II of the Convention defines genocide as any of the following acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group: The most difficult and crucial element is intent. Genocide requires a proven intention to physically destroy a protected group — not merely to displace it, weaken it, or target individuals for other reasons. This “special intent” (dolus specialis) distinguishes genocide from other international crimes. Nigeria’s Reality Every innocent life unjustly taken is one life too many. Nothing in this analysis minimizes the suffering of Nigerian Christians killed or displaced by jihadists or murderous Fulani militias that have devastated farming communities — particularly in the Middle Belt — through cycles of violence stretching back decades. But as horrific as these crimes are, to call them genocide is to misapply the term. The Genocide Convention arose from the ashes of the Holocaust — the targeted, systematic, state-orchestrated extermination of millions of Jews by Nazi Germany. That context matters. Nigeria’s insecurity is a grave humanitarian crisis, but not one that fits the legal or moral definition of genocide. The danger in misusing the word lies not just in linguistic carelessness, but in the erosion of its power to mobilize international justice where it is most needed — in places where governments, not bandits, plot the destruction of entire peoples. If we are to confront Nigeria’s violence meaningfully, we must name it for what it is: terrorism, mass atrocity, and state failure — not genocide. To do otherwise cheapens both the suffering of the victims and the gravity of one of humanity’s most serious crimes. Adewale Alonge, PhD, Founder & President, Africa Diaspora Partnership for Empowerment and Development. www.adped.org, writes in from Dadeland, Miami, Florida, USA.

Troops neutralise 3 bandits in Plateau, recover weapons

Troops of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) have neutralised three suspected bandits in Wase Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau. Maj. Samson Zhakom, the Media Officer of OPSH, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday in Jos. Zhakom said that the feat followed an intelligence tip, while adding that the troops also recovered weapons during the operations. “Yesterday , troops of OPSH, acting on credible intelligence, conducted offensive operations at a criminal hideout along the fringes of Pinau community in Wase LGA of Plateau. “During the operation, troops made contact with criminal elements terrorising the general area, including Pinau – Gimbi road. “During the exchange of fire, troops overwhelmed the criminals with superior firepower and neutralised three of the suspected bandits “While others ran away with wounds from gunshots, troops exploited the general area and recovered one AK-47 rifle and one AK-47 magazine,” he said. Zhakom said that the troops had commenced a follow-up operation to intercept the fleeing criminals. 

Obi praises Zulum’s dedication, laments growing insecurity in Borno.

The 2023 Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party,  Mr Peter Obi has decried the  rising insecurity in Borno, lauding Gov. Babagana Zulum for his commitment in handling the challenge. Obi, a former governor of Anambra, in his X handle on Tuesday, said that the security situation in the Marte area of the state is unsettling and called  for emergency action. According to him,  the apparent commitment of   Zulum, who had courageously relocated to the troubled area is  laudable. “The security situation in Borno state  is concerning and very unsettling. “What is happening in the Marte area of the state is not just a local emergency; it is a national alarm bell that must not be ignored. “Zulum, by choosing to spend the night in a town under threat, has once again, demonstrated what leadership should look like; present, proactive, and people-centred. “His courage is not for commendation alone; it is a challenge to those in authority to match words with decisive action,” he said. Obi said everything possible must be done to  support the state and  prevent an entire local government from falling into the hands of terrorists. He revealed that over 300 communities are  exposed, while more than 20,000 of them  were displaced yet again. He explained that these were not just numbers, they are families, children, and communities whose hopes are hanging by a thread. He said that Zulum had raised critical concerns that insurgents were regrouping around Lake Chad and the Mandara Hills; that Marte is on the verge of collapsing and that the window for action is closing. “These are facts. And it is not enough to acknowledge them; we must respond with urgency and sincerity. “We cannot afford to continue this culture of delayed response and distant governance. “Our security forces need reinforcements, our displaced citizens need protection, We  must show the will to act swiftly and consistently. “I have always maintained that Nigeria works best when leadership is driven by compassion, competence and courage.  and Zulum had shown  all three,”  he added. He stressed that this is not about politics, but  the people, and about protecting the soul of our nation. 

Nigerians are the sixth most terrorised people globally

Nigeria has climbed to the sixth position in the 2025 Global Terrorism Index (GTI), moving up from eighth place in the previous two years.  The report, released on March 5, 2025, assessed the impact of terrorism worldwide, with Burkina Faso ranking as the most affected country, followed by Pakistan, Syria, Mali, and Niger. The data showed that Nigeria recorded 565 terrorism-related deaths in 2024, continuing an upward trend in fatalities.  The number had previously dropped to 392 in 2022, the lowest since 2011, but it surged by 34% in 2023 and increased further in 2024.  While the global trend shows a decline in terrorism-related deaths since 2015, Nigeria’s situation appears to be worsening. One of the key concerns raised in the report was the growing presence of IS-Sahel, a terrorist group that has expanded its reach beyond its usual areas in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.  In 2024, the group carried out 16 attacks in Nigeria, in addition to several others in neighboring countries. The report also indicated that more countries are now experiencing terrorist attacks, with the number rising from 58 in 2023 to 66 in 2024, the highest level since 2018.  The Sahel region has become the most violent hotspot for terrorism, accounting for over half of the terrorism-related deaths worldwide last year.  The overall number of deaths linked to conflict in the region surpassed 25,000, with nearly 4,000 directly caused by terrorist attacks. Despite Burkina Faso maintaining its position as the most impacted country, the number of attacks and fatalities there declined in 2024.  However, Niger experienced a sharp rise in terrorism-related deaths, nearly doubling to 930 fatalities.  This shift raises concerns that any progress in the fight against terrorism in the region might only be temporary. The findings in the report paint a worrying picture of the security situation in Nigeria and the broader West African region.  With terrorist groups expanding their activities and more countries seeing a rise in attacks, tackling the growing threat remains a pressing challenge.

Alleged Boko Haram funding: Senate moves to investigate USAID

The Nigerian Senate is set to investigate claims that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been funding Boko Haram.  The allegation was made by a U.S. lawmaker, Perry Scott. During a plenary session on February 19, 2025, Senate President Godswill Akpabio stated that if the accusations are true, USAID would not be allowed to continue operating in Nigeria.  He stressed the need for a thorough investigation before taking any action. The Senate has summoned top security officials, including the heads of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), the Department of State Services (DSS), and the National Security Adviser (NSA), to provide clarity on the matter. The investigation was triggered by a motion from Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, who urged the Senate to take the matter seriously due to the impact of terrorism in Nigeria. Senator Abdul Ningi suggested that security officials should first brief the Senate behind closed doors before any public discussions.  The Senate agreed and scheduled a private session with the intelligence chiefs to gather more details before making further decisions.

Why terrorism, Violent conflicts persist – CDS Musa

 The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, explained that the prolonged Boko Haram and other violent conflicts stem from their unconventional nature.  Speaking on a TV program, he noted that unlike traditional wars fought over territories, Boko Haram and operates based on ideology, making it harder to combat.   According to Musa, insurgents believe they gain rewards for their actions, making them fearless and difficult to distinguish from civilians.  Their tactics, such as using human shields and blending with communities, further complicate operations.  The military’s adherence to international laws contrasts with the insurgents’ disregard, creating additional challenges.   Musa also highlighted improved transparency in arms procurement, thanks to collaboration with the National Assembly.  He mentioned progress in repairing and maintaining equipment locally, strengthening the military’s capacity.  Additionally, plans are underway to produce weapons domestically following a newly signed bill.   The military remains committed to ending the conflict and enhancing its operational effectiveness.

Boko Haram Attack in Borno, Patrol Vehicles and Tanks Destroyed

As Nigerians pray for an ending to the menace, Boko Haram terrorists struck again on Sunday night in Kawuri village, Konduga LG, Borno state, leaving tails of woe. They set fire to three patrol vehicles of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and three military armored tanks.  Residents fled to the bush as the military confronted the attackers.  The troops pushed back the terrorists, and no casualties were reported during the fight.  However, the attackers planted explosives on the Konduga-Kawuri road to block reinforcements.  On Tuesday morning, while navigating the route, CJTF member Abba Godori accidentally triggered one of the devices and lost his life.  Efforts to reach the police for confirmation were unsuccessful, but a retired community member confirmed the renewed attacks in the area.

Sub-Sahara Africa dominates global terrorism related deaths

Despite the best of effort of the leaders to curtail the trend, Sub-Sahara Africa now accounts for nearly 59 per cent of all terrorism-related deaths globally. This grim reality was revealed on Tuesday by the United Nations Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Muhammed during a UN Security Council meeting on the maintenance of international peace and security. Discussing under the theme, “African-led and development-focused counter-terrorism: strengthening African leadership and implementation of counter-terrorism initiatives.” According to Muhammed, for three years, terrorism related deaths have soared past 6000 making up more than half of all global fertilities. She said Burkina Faso now leads the world in terrorism deaths with a staggering 68 per cent increase, and with little support to reverse the trend. READ ALSO: Nigeria’s Defence policy: New Perm Sec promises to expedite review “Africa has tragically remained the epicenter of global terrorism. In all its forms and manifestations, terrorism is the most significant threat to peace, security and sustainable development across the continent today.” On her part, the impact of terrorism on women and families is particularly devastating. Muhammed noted that terrorists frequently exploit and brutalise women through sexual and gender-based violence, including forced marriages and abductions, causing profound trauma that reverberates through entire communities. She said terrorist networks are now pooling resources, finances, fighters and expertise, while sharpening their capabilities of new technologies, including unmanned aerial systems. “Countering terrorism must continue to innovate with an approach that holds the respect for human rights and the rule of law at its core and an outcome that addresses the conditions conducive to the spread of terrorism. “African member states, with the full backing of the international community must forge cohesive and conducted responses grounded in humanitarian development peace nexus and aligned with the guiding principles of the global counter terrorism strategy.” READ ALSO: Nigerien leader, Abduorahamane Tchiani accuses France of funding insecurity in Northern Nigeria; says Tinubu, Rufa’i, Ribadu are aware She said the pact for the future, agreed in September 2024 by UN member states gives a renewed momentum to global efforts against terrorism, adding that now is the time to implement promises made in the pact with determined action. Muhammed highlighted three priority areas with the first being the need to continually address the drivers of terrorism. She said terrorism thrives on fragility and feeds off poverty, inequality, and disillusionment. “When financing development regresses, when fragile institutions are matched with weak governance, and when women and youth are excluded from decision making, when public services are scarce or unequal, these conditions create fertile ground for radicalisation and recruitment. “Building inclusive, resilient and sustainable societies must be our goal and we have a road map to get there. The 2030 agenda, and in Africa, the 2063 agenda need to be implemented. She noted that human rights based approaches to counter terrorism grounded in accountable and inclusive institutions were needed. Muhammed further said regional cooperation was the linchpin of any effective counter terrorism strategy, adding that fragmenting efforts would serve perpetrators. READ ALSO: Insecurity: Nigerians paid N2.3trn as ransom in one year “Our responses must be united, coherent and urgent, focused on fostering dialog, trust and coordinated action. “The African Union and its counterterrorism center have a leading role to play, but we must go further. “Above all, we must ensure that regional efforts are in lock step, unified in purpose and aligned with the strategy. “This is the only way we believe that we can ensure phasing down the threat of terrorism together. “Ultimately, African led and African owned solutions must take the lead in tackling terrorism across the continent,” she said.