Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru Abubakar has declared that recent military successes mark a turning point in Nigeria’s fight against insecurity.
He highlighted significant improvements in security, noting that, “For the first time in years, Nigerians can travel the Birnin Gwari to Kaduna road safely, even at midnight. This is a clear sign of progress. Similarly, routes from Zaria to Funtua to Gusau have become peaceful, and the Abuja-Kaduna highway is now largely secured.”
Speaking in an interview for an upcoming State House documentary commemorating President Bola Tinubu’s second anniversary in office, Badaru emphasized the President’s firm directive to end insecurity decisively and swiftly, setting a deadline of before the end of 2025. He credited ongoing military operations, such as Operation Fasan Yama, alongside coordinated efforts across various fronts nationwide, as pivotal in restoring security to multiple regions.
A statement from the presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, detailed the Defence Minister’s account of tangible achievements by security forces so far: 13,543 terrorists and bandits neutralized, 17,500 arrested, 9,821 hostages rescued, and 24,000 insurgents surrendered. “These figures represent more than just statistics—they reflect lives saved, villages reclaimed, and communities restored,” Badaru emphasized.
He pointed out a visible return to normalcy, particularly in the Northeast and Northwest regions, where markets have reopened and farms are productive once more. “Communities including the Fulani, Hausa, and others are rebuilding trust. The progress is genuine and clearly noticeable,” he said.
On troop welfare, the minister praised President Tinubu’s approval of an ₦18 billion fund to clear insurance arrears for military personnel and improve their conditions. “We have doubled the ration allowance from ₦1,500 to ₦3,000 per soldier. Life insurance now covers every soldier, and I have personally visited frontline bases to listen to their concerns and uplift morale,” he added.
Addressing military modernization, Badaru revealed that no request for equipment from the armed forces has been denied by the President. “We now have advanced attack helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), mine-resistant ambush protected vehicles (MRAPs), armored personnel carriers (APCs), and cutting-edge weaponry. Our military is better equipped than ever before.”
The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Bill, the minister said, is a transformative development. “We have established over 100 defence partnerships both locally and internationally. Ammunition production is now underway domestically. In fact, two MRAPs assembled here are parked right outside my office. This marks the beginning of true defence self-sufficiency.”
Badaru also reported significant progress in curbing oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the South-South region. Crude oil production has increased from 1.4 million to nearly 1.8 million barrels per day. “We have arrested six illegal vessels, destroyed 2,000 illicit refineries, and dismantled over 5,000 crude oil storage pits,” he revealed.
Looking ahead, the Defence Minister affirmed President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment: “This administration is not about empty promises. It is building robust institutions, strengthening morale, fostering partnerships, and enhancing firepower to secure Nigeria. We are resolute and on course to achieve total victory over insecurity by the end of 2025.”
He urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and united, recognizing that meaningful change takes time. “Neutral observers acknowledge the substantial progress we have made. The President’s determination is steadfast, and together, we are laying a solid foundation for lasting peace and security.”