…Says Your Duty Is To Find Boko Haram and Kill Them
…Announces New Salaries, with 3-Months Arrears, for Military
By Abu Adamu
Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, has issued a stark directive to troops on the frontlines of the insurgency war: engage and eliminate terrorists and bandits immediately, without waiting for further orders.
Speaking during a high-level visit to Maiduguri alongside the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, Musa declared that troops must take the fight directly to insurgents, particularly Boko Haram and ISWAP, whose renewed attacks have unsettled parts of the North-East, especially Borno State.
In a blunt and emphatic charge, the defence chief told soldiers that hesitation in combat operations would no longer be tolerated.
“You don’t have to wait for any order from anybody. Your duty is to go out, find Boko Haram wherever they are, and take them down,” he said, stressing that operational initiative is now a core expectation in the military’s evolving counterinsurgency strategy.
Musa acknowledged the heavy sacrifices made by troops, many of whom have lost their lives or sustained injuries in the line of duty. He assured them that their efforts have not gone unnoticed by the government or Nigerians at large, urging them to remain disciplined, focused, and resolute.
“Our enemies do not wish us well, and we must remain unwavering. Stay committed to finishing the fight against terrorism and banditry,” he added.
As part of renewed efforts to strengthen the military’s capacity, Musa revealed that President Bola Tinubu has approved the acquisition of advanced military hardware, including new aircraft and drones, to boost operational effectiveness across theatres of conflict.
The defence minister also announced improved welfare for military personnel, confirming that newly approved salary increments will be implemented within three months. He added that three months’ salary arrears would be paid immediately after implementation.
He warned troops against engaging in any form of illegal activity, including the misuse or trafficking of weapons and drugs, insisting that their sole responsibility remains the neutralisation of threats to national security.
Reaffirming confidence in the armed forces, Musa said the military has recorded more victories than setbacks and urged Nigerians to focus on the courage and resilience of the troops rather than isolated challenges.
“The sacrifices of our men and women in uniform—who leave their families behind to defend this nation—must be recognised and supported. Their story must be told with accuracy and pride,” he said.
During the visit, the defence delegation also met with Borno State Deputy Governor, Usman Kadafur, assuring the state government of sustained federal commitment to restoring peace and stability in the region.
Kadafur, in response, described the visit as a strong signal of the federal government’s determination to recalibrate security strategies and decisively confront insurgency in the North-East.
Musa also commissioned newly completed housing units for military officers at the Maimalari Barracks before concluding the visit.