Nigeria’s Defence Minister, General Christopher Musa (retd.), has directed troops to shoot bandits and terrorists on sight, warning that any soldier who hesitates while waiting for orders will be treated as a criminal.
Speaking on Wednesday during the commissioning of newly acquired security assets in Sokoto State, Musa said security personnel deployed to combat armed groups must act immediately once they identify bandits or terrorists.
“Once you are deployed, do not wait for any order from anybody to shoot any bandit or any terrorist,” he said.
“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.”
His directive comes as Nigeria steps up efforts to tackle persistent insecurity in the North-West, where armed gangs continue to carry out killings, kidnappings for ransom, cattle rustling and attacks on rural communities.
The minister made the remarks while inaugurating security assets worth ₦27.127 billion procured by the Sokoto State Government to boost operations against criminal groups.
The newly commissioned assets include 62 operational vehicles, comprising armoured personnel carriers and tactical vehicles, 300 motorcycles, bulletproof vests and other security equipment designed to improve mobility and rapid response.
Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu said the investment demonstrates his administration’s commitment to supporting federal security agencies and restoring peace across communities affected by banditry.
“Security remains the foundation for sustainable development,” the governor said, noting that economic growth and agricultural activities cannot thrive without a safe environment.
Aliyu also announced that a major road in Sokoto metropolis has been named after the defence minister in recognition of his contributions to the fight against insecurity.
Musa commended the state government for prioritising security and urged agencies to ensure the newly acquired equipment is properly maintained.
“We will come after one year to see how these equipment are doing,” he said.
He also emphasised the need for stronger intelligence sharing and closer collaboration among security agencies, state governments and local communities to combat armed groups effectively.
Nigeria has faced multiple security challenges for more than a decade, including insurgencies by Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in the North-East, widespread banditry in the North-West and recurring communal violence in parts of the North-Central region.
