Tinubu meets service chiefs as Defence Minister says terrorists suffering heavier losses

President Bola Tinubu on Thursday met with the service chiefs in Abuja amid growing concerns over security challenges across the country.

Speaking after the security briefing at the Presidential Villa, the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, said the armed forces remain committed to tackling insurgency, banditry and other security threats.

Badaru said the military leadership used the meeting to update the president on the current security situation and ongoing operations nationwide.

“We came here to brief Mr President on the situation on the ground. There have been a series of attacks, and our security forces have risen to the occasion,” he said.

The minister also said some media reports about the conflict have not accurately reflected developments on the battlefield.

“Sometimes the interpretation, especially in the media, has not been accurate. We felt it was necessary to put the record straight,” he added.

According to him, terrorists and bandits are suffering heavier casualties in ongoing military operations.

“Contrary to what you may read or hear, the terrorists and bandits are taking more casualties. Their commanders are being killed every day, and we are confident of victory,” he said.

Badaru, however, acknowledged that the military has also suffered losses in the fight against criminal groups.

“We have lost a number of very courageous officers and men, which is highly regrettable. But we want to assure Nigerians of our commitment to ensuring the country is safe and secure,” he said.

He also revealed that President Tinubu has pledged additional equipment to strengthen the operational capacity of the armed forces.

“The President has promised more equipment for us to better protect the nation, and with that support, we are confident of victory,” he added.

The defence minister urged Nigerians to remain resilient and support security agencies in the fight against insecurity.

 

“Our appeal to Nigerians is not to get tired or discouraged. The terrorists and bandits are the ones suffering more losses,” he said.