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Foreign Fighters Fuel Recent Terror Attacks in Nigeria – DHQ

Published by Tope Fakinlede on January 16th, 2025.

Foreign Fighters Fuel Recent Terror Attacks in Nigeria – DHQ

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has stated that the recent increase in terrorist activities across Nigeria’s North East and North West regions is largely due to the involvement of foreign insurgents who have joined forces with local terrorists.

In recent weeks, the country has witnessed a series of violent attacks targeting both military installations and civilian communities, which has raised serious concerns about the growing security threat.

During the first military briefing of the year, which also served as a farewell address by the outgoing Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Buba Edward, the military attributed the upsurge in violence to foreign fighters from the Sahel region who have allied with local militants.

Maj. Gen. Buba explained, “The recent increase in terrorist attacks can be traced to the arrival of foreign insurgents who have come in as reinforcements for local terrorist groups. These fighters hail from the Sahel region, and the situation is further exacerbated by the support of local collaborators who provide critical intelligence on the movements of military forces.”

Despite these challenges, Buba reassured the public of the military’s unwavering dedication to defeating terrorism in the country. He emphasized that while occasional setbacks may occur, the overall strategy remains focused on breaking the terrorists’ resolve to continue fighting.

“The key to defeating terrorism is to destroy the enemy’s will to fight. Our efforts are focused on neutralizing their operatives, commanders, and leadership, while also dismantling their logistical and combat capabilities. We are also leveraging regional and international pressure to weaken their resolve,” he stated.

Buba further stressed the long-term nature of the ongoing counterterrorism operations, noting that wars are won by breaking the enemy’s determination to continue the fight. “This is not a short-term battle, but a prolonged military operation aimed at eradicating terrorism. We are committed to seeing this through to the end,” he said.

In closing, Buba highlighted the importance of collective responsibility in maintaining security. Referring to the popular 2025 slogan, he said, “Security is everyone’s business. We must never compromise on it. As we move forward, remember: ‘The military dey for you, dey for us.’”

While acknowledging that the country has not yet fully overcome the security challenges, Buba expressed confidence that, with continued effort, Nigeria is steadily progressing towards a safer future.