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Retired Generals Accuse NGOs and International Agencies of Fueling Terrorism in Nigeria, Claim Weapons Are Sold Cheaply to Terrorists

Published by Tope Fakinlede on January 17th, 2025.

Retired Generals Accuse NGOs and International Agencies of Fueling Terrorism in Nigeria, Claim Weapons Are Sold Cheaply to Terrorists

Retired generals from Nigeria’s Army, Navy, and Air Force, who played key roles in the fight against insurgency, particularly Boko Haram, have raised concerns about the role of certain non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and international bodies in exacerbating the country’s security challenges. These military leaders argue that some NGOs and interest groups have indirectly facilitated the continued rise of terrorism and violent crimes in Nigeria.

As reported by The Vanguard, General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, recently called for a United Nations investigation into the continued supply of arms to terrorists and bandits in Nigeria, despite the military’s substantial efforts. The armed forces have eliminated many insurgents and confiscated significant amounts of weaponry, yet these groups continue to access advanced weapons.

General Musa’s remarks came amid growing criticism of the military’s inability to curb the influx of sophisticated arms into the hands of terrorist organizations, bandits, and kidnappers, despite the substantial funds allocated to combat these threats.

In an effort to understand the ongoing conflict, several retired generals, including former theatre commanders and high-ranking officers, have shared their insights into the issue. While remaining anonymous, these veterans identified NGOs as significant players in the ongoing arms trade. One retired Air Officer Commanding (AOC) revealed to Vanguard that many NGOs, which portray themselves as aid organizations, have hidden motives. According to the officer, these NGOs, under the guise of providing humanitarian aid like mosquito nets and insecticides, profit from arms sales and the export of mineral resources. The weapons are allegedly sold cheaply to terrorist groups and bandits, sometimes as low as $5 to $10 per unit.

The officer also pointed to a specific instance during the fight against banditry in Kaduna State, where security forces discovered that 450 Boko Haram insurgents had moved into the Birnin Gwari forests. However, the officer claims that the government lacked the political will to take decisive action, such as conducting airstrikes to eliminate the threat.

Despite the efforts of Nigeria’s military and security agencies, these retired generals argue that terrorists continue to receive support through NGOs and other organizations acting as fronts for arms supplies and other illicit activities.