Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has convened an urgent high-level meeting with the country’s top military commanders following a surge in attacks on military formations, particularly in the North-East.
The emergency meeting took place at the Ministry of Defence headquarters in Abuja. It brought together key figures responsible for Nigeria’s national security architecture to reassess strategies aimed at combating insurgency and protecting military personnel and facilities.
Among those present were the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede; the Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shaibu; the Chief of Air Staff, Sunday Aneke; and the Chief of Naval Staff, Idi Abass. Representatives from the National Intelligence Agency also participated in the security discussions.
The meeting comes amid growing concerns over repeated attacks on military bases in the North-East, especially in Borno State.
According to reports, recent assaults by insurgent groups resulted in the deaths of at least three commanding officers holding the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel, along with several soldiers. The violence has also led to the abduction of hundreds of civilians, further deepening the region’s security crisis.
During the closed-door session, the Defence Minister stressed the need for stronger coordination among the armed forces and intelligence agencies. He reportedly acknowledged the casualties suffered by Nigerian troops but noted that the insurgents have also recorded heavier losses in recent confrontations with security forces.
The emergency consultation is part of broader efforts by the Defence Ministry to strengthen Nigeria’s counter-terrorism operations. General Musa has recently introduced monthly operational briefings designed to improve collaboration, share intelligence, and develop innovative strategies to defeat terrorism, insurgency, and banditry across the country.
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Security analysts believe the renewed focus on coordination among the armed forces could play a crucial role in improving operational effectiveness and restoring stability in the affected regions.