Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday reassured the country that his government was committed to ensuring that the security situation improved in light of a number of deadly attacks in recent days.
More than 30 people have been killed in separate attacks in Nigeria in the last week as Africa’s most populous nation battles the Boko Haram insurgency and other criminal activities such as banditry and kidnappings, particularly in the north, northwestern, northeastern and central regions.
Last week, state governors also called on the federal government to deploy more state-of-the-art equipment to the military which is fighting Boko Haram in the northeast.
Buhari, who posted his message on social media, said the government was in the process of acquiring the necessary equipment to help authorities stabilize the situation.
“We are working very hard to ensure the security situation in every part of Nigeria improves very soon. As part of our efforts, we are investing heavily in acquiring modern equipment. Some have arrived, some are being cleared at the Ports, and we have others still on their way,” Buhari said.
“Our government is doing its best on the question of equipment, and the military know. We understand the importance of properly equipping our personnel, so that they can deliver their best.”
Buhari also appealed for patience as the government procured the equipment noting that disruptions occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic had affected supply chains.
“I want all Nigerians to rest assured that we are doing our very best in this regard. You will see substantial improvements very soon. Security of the lives and property of all Nigerian people will continue to be a priority for us.”
Nigeria’s security forces have mainly been engaged in trying to stamp out the Islamist insurgency, banditry and kidnappings.
The insecurity arising from banditry and terrorism has resulted in the killings of thousands of people, displacement of hundreds of thousands of others and destruction of property of unknown value.
Some of these criminal activities themselves led to the creation of more insecurity and violence.
With regard to banditry, the formation of vigilante groups designed to defend communities resulted and led to alleged extra-judicial killings of suspected bandits. These incidents in turn resulted in reprisal killings.
Meanwhile, the Boko Haram insurgency which has been ongoing for more than a decade has led to loss of life of troops and civilians, displacement of people and instability in neighbouring countries.
