Ndume: Lessons from Jonathan’s Strategy Against Boko Haram Highlight Need for Urgent Action on Security Challenges
Senator Ali Ndume, representing Southern Borno, has highlighted former President Goodluck Jonathan’s effective strategy in combating Boko Haram during the final days of his administration. Ndume attributes this success to the involvement of Private Military Contractors (PMCs) from South Africa, which played a crucial role in dislodging the insurgents from Maiduguri in 2014.
Speaking with journalists after the recent 10th Senate retreat on constitutional reviews in Kano, Ndume reflected on how the collaboration between these PMCs and the Nigerian Army led to significant progress against Boko Haram. He stated, “As a former Chair of the House Committee on Army and a Borno native, I understand our challenges with Boko Haram, banditry, and IPOB. If the government is serious, these issues could be addressed within six months to a year.”
He emphasized that most bandits lack training and equipment, often utilizing weapons taken from the Nigerian military. Ndume expressed frustration over the apparent inability to track high-profile criminals like Turji, despite advances in technology that should facilitate such efforts.
Ndume commended the Chief of Army Staff for acknowledging the limitations of resources available to security forces. He advocated for increasing recruitment into the Nigerian Army, highlighting the potential of the country’s youth, many of whom are eager to serve but lack opportunities.
He recounted how Jonathan’s administration engaged PMCs to eliminate Boko Haram, noting that their joint efforts led to a significant reduction in insurgent activities in Maiduguri. “With the right personnel and technology, Boko Haram could be eliminated from areas like Lake Chad, Mandara Mountains, and Sambisa,” he added.
Despite the challenges, Ndume believes that with improved training, better equipment, and modern technology, the Nigerian Armed Forces can effectively tackle the ongoing security crisis. He called for a serious commitment to addressing these issues, stating, “Let us focus on the security and welfare of our citizens and stop treating these problems superficially.”
