Defence
…urges sustained offensive against terrorists
THE Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has commended the proactive military measures initiated by the Nigerian Army under the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, to forestall the planned attacks by Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists in the North-East following credible intelligence gathered by the Department of State Services (DSS).
The rights group said the swift operational response by the military demonstrates the importance of intelligence-driven counterterrorism operations and urged the Armed Forces to sustain the momentum until terrorist networks are decisively dismantled.
HURIWA also applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the historic expansion of the Nigerian Army through the establishment of four additional divisions and new brigades across strategic locations in the country. According to the association, the restructuring represents one of the most significant reforms in the Army’s history and reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s defence architecture.
The association further welcomed the recent announcement by the Chief of Defence Staff regarding the Federal Government’s plan to review upward the salaries and welfare packages of military personnel. HURIWA noted that improved remuneration, better welfare and enhanced operational support would boost the morale, professionalism and fighting capability of troops confronting terrorists, bandits and other violent non-state actors.
“The expansion of the Nigerian Army is a historic milestone that aligns with global best practices in military organisation. A stronger force structure, backed by improved command and control, will enhance rapid deployment, strengthen border security and improve the country’s capacity to respond effectively to emerging security threats,” HURIWA stated.
The association particularly commended the appointment of General Officers Commanding for the newly created divisions and expressed confidence that the new operational formations would significantly improve military presence in vulnerable regions while reinforcing joint operations among the armed forces and other security agencies.
HURIWA also praised the Chief of Army Staff for directing tighter security along humanitarian supply routes in Borno State, especially the Dikwa–Gamboru Ngala corridor, where remnants of terrorist groups continue to threaten relief operations. The association described the directive as a demonstration of the Army’s commitment to protecting humanitarian workers, displaced persons and vulnerable communities affected by insurgency.
While applauding these laudable initiatives, HURIWA urged the military high command to continue refining its operational tactics, deepen intelligence-led operations, deploy modern surveillance technologies and sustain aggressive offensives aimed at degrading, defeating and permanently destroying Boko Haram, ISWAP and all other armed non-state actors threatening Nigeria’s peace, unity and territorial integrity.
The association stressed that defeating terrorism requires sustained political support, adequate funding, improved troop welfare, enhanced inter-agency collaboration and unwavering public confidence in the Armed Forces.
HURIWA reaffirmed its support for all lawful measures designed to strengthen Nigeria’s security institutions and called on Nigerians to continue supporting the military by providing timely and credible information that would assist ongoing counterterrorism operations.
F.O
Tags: HURIWA Military expansion