Defence Minister to troops: Shoot terrorists, don’t wait for orders

Sokoto-Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, yesterday directed security personnel engaged in counter-terrorism and anti-banditry operations not to hesitate in confronting armed criminals, warning that any operative who failed to act under the guise of awaiting orders would be treated as aiding the enemy.

Speaking at the commissioning of security assets procured by Sokoto State government, the minister stressed that troops must take decisive action against terrorists whenever the situation demanded.

“Once you are deployed, do not wait for any order from anybody to shoot any bandit or any terrorist.

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 terrorists. This is a general order,” General Musa declared.

Gen. Musa praised the Sokoto State Government for prioritising security, describing the investment as a demonstration of visionary leadership and commitment to public safety.

He said the fight against insecurity required collaboration among the federal, state and local governments, as well as active support from citizens.

The defence minister noted that the newly commissioned assets would enhance operational effectiveness and boost the morale of security personnel deployed across Sokoto State and the wider North-West region.

He also urged residents to continue providing credible intelligence to security agencies, stressing that community participation remains vital to addressing emerging security threats.

Musa assured Nigerians that the armed forces remained committed to eliminating criminal elements and restoring lasting peace across the country.

His directive came as Sokoto State government unveiled a N27.6 billion security intervention package, comprising armoured personnel carriers, tactical vehicles and 300 motorcycles to strengthen security operations across the state.

The equipment was commissioned at the Giginya Memorial Stadium by the defence minister in the presence of senior military officers, security chiefs, traditional rulers, government officials and residents.

Also speaking on the occasion, Governor Ahmed Aliyu said the procurement represented one of the state’s largest security investments, aimed at enhancing the operational capacity of security agencies in tackling banditry, terrorism, kidnapping and other violent crimes.

According to him, the intervention forms part of his administration’s broader strategy to restore peace and protect lives and property, particularly in border communities and rural areas affected by insecurity. 

He said security remained the foundation for sustainable development, adding that economic growth, agriculture and social progress would not thrive in an atmosphere of fear and instability. 

Aliyu said the newly acquired armoured vehicles and motorcycles would improve rapid response, intelligence gathering, surveillance and troop mobility, especially in difficult terrains.

He appreciated President Bola Tinubu, the armed forces and other security agencies for their continued support in combating insecurity, pledging that the state would sustain investments that complemented federal security efforts.

The governor also commended Gen. Musa for his leadership and commitment to the fight against terrorism and banditry. 

In recognition of his contributions to national security, Aliyu inaugurated a major road in Sokoto metropolis and named it General Christopher Musa Road.