CDS Raises Alarm Over Insecurity, Cites Porous Borders and Jihadist Influx

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has expressed grave concerns over Nigeria’s worsening security situation, attributing the rise in violence to porous borders that have allowed jihadist fighters from the Sahel region to infiltrate the country.

Following a closed-door meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja on Friday, General Musa revealed that jihadist elements displaced from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger are now entering Nigeria, intensifying attacks particularly in the northern and middle belt regions.

“There’s been a global push by terrorists and jihadists throughout the Sahel,” Musa stated. “That pressure has now shifted toward Nigeria due to the weak and porous nature of our borders.”

Recent data indicates a sharp uptick—over 40% since 2023—in attacks carried out by groups such as the Islamic State Sahel Province and Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin. These militants are moving southward, infiltrating states including Kaduna, Niger, and Plateau as they flee military pressure in the Sahel.

General Musa assured Nigerians that the military is scaling up its response. He said President Tinubu has approved significant investments in military hardware and air assets to strengthen national defense capabilities.

“Our meeting today was a comprehensive review of the security situation. The president is deeply concerned, and we assured him that we are taking proactive steps. He directed us to intensify our operations and enhance collaboration with neighboring countries,” he said.

“The president has approved the procurement of vital air assets and equipment. But it’s not just about combat operations—non-kinetic strategies are equally critical.”

General Musa emphasized the importance of cooperation with state governments, local authorities, and communities in addressing the security crisis.

“I was just in Maiduguri yesterday, meeting with state governors. The military cannot do this alone—we need support from all levels. While the federal government is doing a lot, peace cannot be achieved without active involvement from states and communities,” he added.

He also urged citizens to remain alert, report suspicious activities, and avoid spreading misinformation, warning that many circulating videos are either outdated or sourced from other countries.

“Everyone must support the security agencies. If you notice something unusual, report it immediately—action will be taken, even against security personnel who act improperly,” he said. “We urge Nigerians not to lose hope and to stay vigilant against fake news. It’s troubling that some seem to celebrate setbacks in their own country.”