The Nigerian Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa has said that insurgency in the North East, led by Boko Haram since 2009, has not only devastated communities but has also stretched the country’s military resources, forcing the displacement of millions, and undermining economic development.
General Musa spoke today at the inaugural News Agency of Nigeria Annual International Lecture tagged, “Insecurity in the Sahel (2008-2024): Dissecting Nigeria’s Challenges – Genesis, Impacts, and Options”.
The event, centred on a theme that strikes at the core of Nigeria’s national security concerns, comes at a time when a reflective and strategic dialogue on the state of security in our region is critical.
General Musa noted that the event provided an excellent platform to dissect and address the complexities of the insecurity in the Sahel, its consequences for Nigeria, and the possible pathways to securing a sustainable and peaceful future.
“Over the past decade and a half, the Sahel region has become synonymous with instability, violence, and insecurity. From the rise of insurgent groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP to the spread of violent extremism, human trafficking, and illegal arms proliferation, the region has witnessed unprecedented turmoil.
“This insecurity did not emerge in a vacuum. Its roots can be traced to a combination of local and global factors, including poor governance, economic marginalization, climate change, ethnic tensions, and the spillover effects of conflicts in North Africa and the broader Middle East.
“The collapse of the Libyan state in 2011, for instance, unleashed an influx of weapons and fighters, which catalysed the rise of militant groups across the Sahel.
Nigeria, as a critical player in the region, has borne a significant share of the fallout from this instability.
“The insurgency in the North East, led by Boko Haram since 2009, has not only devastated communities but has also stretched our military resources, forced the displacement of millions, and undermined economic development.
“Relatedly, the porous nature of Nigeria’s borders with Sahelian countries has made it easier for transnational criminals, including smugglers, human traffickers, and arms dealers, to operate with impunity.
“Notwithstanding, Nigeria has demonstrated resilience and determination in confronting these challenges. Over the years, the Nigerian Armed Forces have worked tirelessly alongside regional and international partners to combat the insurgency and stabilize affected areas.
“Through joint operations like the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), Nigeria has played a pivotal role in regional counter-terrorism efforts. Nevertheless, the path to lasting peace requires a multi-dimensional approach beyond military intervention as the nature of insecurity in the Sahel is deeply rooted in socio-economic and political issues, necessitating comprehensive solutions.
“It is on this premise that I once again acknowledge and appreciate the wisdom by the management of the News Agency of Nigeria in assembling such notable and seasoned scholars, diplomats and leaders who have distinguished themselves globally and across the continent.
“I have always advocated for a thorough understanding of the dire situation facing the subregion. It is very paramount that nations across the Sahel including Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger are globally supported to remain strong, and viable to defeat the scourge of terrorism and other international crimes.
“Therefore, discussions such as this today is not only timely but critical to identifying the challenges, impacts and options available to us as political, mnilitary and societal leaders in the country.”