The Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru, delivered a sobering assessment at the 13th National Security Seminar 2024 in Abuja, organized by the Alumni Association of the National Defence College.
He pointed out a troubling reality: despite efforts, oil theft, illegal crude oil refining, and kidnappings persist in the Niger Delta due to the proliferation of small arms and light weapons.
Badaru didn’t mince words about the severity of these crimes, highlighting their profound impact on the nation’s economy and its citizens. He made it clear that the government’s stance is resolute – such offenses won’t be tolerated, and those responsible will face significant consequences.
Emphasizing the urgency of the situation, Badaru stressed the need for decisive action and comprehensive strategies to combat these illicit activities and restore peace to affected communities. He underscored the importance of leveraging advanced technology in warfare to improve situational awareness and effectiveness.
Gen. Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, echoed Badaru’s sentiments, emphasizing the critical role of confronting security threats for the nation’s survival. He noted the ever-evolving global security landscape and the need for Nigeria to adapt and respond dynamically to emerging challenges.
Musa highlighted the wide-ranging impact of security threats, from terrorism to transnational crimes, on Nigeria’s social and economic well-being. His remarks underscored the imperative for a multifaceted approach to address these issues effectively and safeguard the nation’s stability.
