The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has emphasised the complexities involved in military operations against bandits, noting that some of their hideouts are situated in forested areas where conventional bombing may not be effective.
In a recent interview with the BBC Hausa Service, the minister acknowledged the persistence of security challenges but reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces to bringing an end to banditry in the country. He described the recent surge in school abductions as a reflection of guerrilla-style tactics employed by criminal groups, who carry out sporadic attacks to create fear and instability.
“Guerrilla warfare often involves periods of calm followed by sudden strikes aimed at unsettling the nation,” the minister stated. “While we are aware of many of their locations, some areas present significant operational constraints—either due to the risk to civilian populations or the natural cover provided by dense forests that limits the effectiveness of airstrikes.”
Addressing the recent incidents of school abductions, the minister added, “We have always been clear that the fight is ongoing. The abduction of schoolchildren is deeply concerning, and we are conducting thorough reviews to understand the gaps and strengthen measures to prevent such incidents in the future.”
The statement underscores the government’s continued focus on addressing security threats while adapting strategies to the evolving tactics of criminal elements.
