Local Collaborators and Sponsors Sustaining Insecurity, Says Defence Minister

The ongoing fight against insurgency, terrorism, and banditry across Nigeria remains highly challenging due to the active support criminal elements receive from local sponsors and members of the public.

Speaking at the 2026 edition of The Platform Nigeria an annual national discourse held to mark Democracy Daythe Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), highlighted that internal sabotage is a major hurdle for the military. Addressing the theme “Governance, Democracy and National Security,” the minister explained that criminal groups rely heavily on local networks for intelligence, food, funding, and logistics.

According to the defense chief, these local supply chains serve as the operational “oxygen” for bandits and terrorists. He noted that unlike conventional warfare, where state adversaries are clearly identified, modern internal security threats involve enemies embedded directly within the communities they target.

The minister emphasized that military operations alone cannot eliminate these threats without absolute cooperation from citizens, urging communities to actively expose individuals aiding criminal networks. He stressed that national unity is vital, as insurgent groups routinely exploit social and regional divisions to expand their operations.

The event also featured insights on democratic governance from former Senate President Bukola Saraki, who spoke on the critical role of legislative independence. Saraki argued that a national assembly must actively scrutinize executive proposals rather than serving as a ceremonial rubber stamp.

He maintained that an independent legislature is not a sign of government rebellion, but rather a constitutional necessity that ensures accountability and legitimizes governance.