Defence Minister Warns Terrorist Backers, Orders Security Agencies to Act Without Mercy

|By Adejumo Adekunle

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has issued a hard warning to individuals and groups aiding terrorists, bandits and insurgents, declaring that the Federal Government has authorised security agencies to move decisively against them.

Speaking in Abuja during the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day 2026, Musa said anyone found supporting criminal elements would be treated as an accomplice and face the full weight of the law.

He said the Federal Government of Nigeria has given security agencies a clear mandate to confront not only armed criminals but also those who provide them with logistics, intelligence or shelter.

Musa urged Nigerians to intensify cooperation with the military and other security agencies, stressing that public support and credible intelligence remain critical to restoring peace and stability nationwide.

He warned that sympathisers of criminals risk suffering the same fate as those they protect, adding that law-abiding citizens must continue to volunteer useful information to security operatives.

The defence minister explained that the annual remembrance event goes beyond honouring fallen heroes, noting that it also recognises serving personnel and their families for their sacrifices and resilience in defence of the nation.

He added that the celebration serves to boost the morale of troops in active service and reassure them of the nation’s backing, citing the sustained commitment of Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the welfare and operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces.