The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (Rtd), has summoned all Service Chiefs to his office for a crucial meeting following a surge in attacks on military bases in Nigeria’s North-East.
Those currently attending the meeting at the Headquarters of the Ministry of Defence in Abuja include the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede; the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu; the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke; and the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abass. Representatives of the National Intelligence Agency and other senior security officials are also present.
TheFact Daily notes that the emergency meeting comes amid renewed insurgent offensives in Borno State and surrounding areas, where terrorists have intensified attacks on military formations and communities. The latest assaults have raised concerns within the security establishment over the evolving tactics and resilience of insurgent groups operating in the region.
No fewer than three Commanding Officers, all of the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel, were recently killed in separate terrorist attacks in Borno. Scores of soldiers also paid the supreme price, while hundreds of civilians abducted during the assaults remain in captivity.
Speaking briefly before the meeting went into a closed-door session, the Defence Minister said the gathering would review operational strategies to ensure a stronger response against terrorists, despite the casualties suffered by troops.
“We know we have recorded some casualties, but it is more on the side of the terrorists,” the retired four-star general said.
More details to follow.
