The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), has ordered security personnel deployed to combat operations to engage terrorists and bandits immediately, without waiting for further directives.
Musa gave the directive on Wednesday in Sokoto during the commissioning of 62 operational vehicles and other security equipment procured by the Sokoto State Government. The assets, valued at ₦27.127 billion, are meant to boost security operations across the state.
“Once you are deployed, do not wait for any order from anybody to shoot any bandit or any terrorist,” the minister told troops.
“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 bandit.”
He said the delivery of the new equipment demonstrates the state government’s commitment to improving safety and supporting security agencies in the fight against banditry, terrorism and kidnapping.
“This event is not merely the unveiling of security assets. It is a demonstration of strategic leadership, responsible governance and our collective determination to strengthen the security architecture of Sokoto State and Nigeria as a whole,” Musa said.
Describing himself as “a proud son of Sokoto,” the minister noted that collaboration between the state government, security agencies and residents has helped keep Sokoto among the more peaceful states. He added that the new armoured vehicles and tactical gear will improve mobility, intelligence gathering and the safety of personnel on missions.
*‘Protect the Equipment, Protect Civilians’*
Musa also cautioned officers against abusing the equipment.
“This equipment costs billions of naira. We don’t want to hand them over and then you throw them away or mishandle them. They must serve the purpose for which they were procured,” he warned.
He further urged troops to remain professional and avoid harassing civilians.
“You are not to go there and extort or harass the people. You are there to protect them and work with them to eliminate bandits and terrorists operating within your area,” he said.
*Sokoto Govt Invests ₦27bn in Security*
Governor Ahmed Aliyu said the procurement is part of his administration’s ongoing efforts to strengthen security.
Items distributed include bulletproof vehicles, Buffalo Armoured Personnel Carriers, 320 motorcycles, 3,200 security gadgets, 2,000 bulletproof helmets and vests, 200 night-vision goggles, thermal devices and other tactical equipment.
“In all, we are distributing 62 vehicles and the security equipment highlighted above. These vehicles and security equipment cost the Sokoto State Government ₦27.127 billion,” Aliyu said.
The governor disclosed that his administration has spent over ₦36 billion on security so far, including building military and police barracks, establishing the Sokoto State Community Guard Corps, and supporting the Nigerian Air Force Base.
Aliyu also announced that a bill prescribing tougher punishment for informants and collaborators of bandits is before the State House of Assembly, and will be signed immediately once passed.
He further revealed approval for a Command and Control Centre to improve surveillance and coordination of operations across the state.
“Security is a collective responsibility and together we shall overcome every security challenge confronting our state,” the governor said, urging residents to continue providing useful information to security agencies.
