Influx of Foreign Fighters Behind Resurgence of Terrorist Attacks — DHQ

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has attributed the recent surge in terrorist activities across Nigeria’s North-East and North-West regions to the influx of foreign fighters from the Sahelian region, who have joined forces with local terrorists to intensify attacks.

In his first military briefing of the year and as part of his farewell address, the outgoing Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, emphasized that the resurgence of terrorism in Nigeria was partly due to the arrival of these foreign fighters who were reinforcing local terrorist groups. He also pointed to local collaborators, who assist by providing vital intelligence on troop movements.

“In recent weeks, we have witnessed a troubling spike in attacks on both military bases and civilian populations. These attacks can largely be attributed to foreign fighters from the Sahel region, who have come to support the terrorists. Alongside them, local accomplices are providing information that aids the terrorists in their operations,” Buba explained.

Despite these challenges, General Buba assured the Nigerian public of the military’s unyielding commitment to eradicating terrorism. He stated that, beyond directly confronting the terrorists, the military was also applying regional and international pressure to dismantle the terror network.

“While we may face occasional tactical setbacks, our strategic objective remains unchanged: to break the terrorists’ will to fight,” he said. “Defeating the enemy is not just about winning battles but about destroying their capacity and determination to continue. This is exactly what we are doing by eliminating their operatives, commanders, and senior leaders, and taking out their logistics and fighting assets.”

Buba also highlighted the broader efforts being made on regional and international fronts to combat terrorism, stressing that cooperation with foreign military allies and the media plays a crucial role in disrupting terrorist operations.

“Our military strategy is clear and comprehensive. We are waging a war that will not be won overnight. It is a long-term commitment, but we are determined to see it through. The goal is not just to defeat these terrorists but to destroy their resolve to fight, which will lead to the restoration of peace in our country,” Buba stated.

On the importance of public engagement in the fight against terrorism, he emphasized the collective responsibility of all Nigerians in ensuring the nation’s security. “Security is not just the military’s job; it is everyone’s responsibility,” he said, adopting a popular phrase for 2025, “The military dey for you, dey for us.”

“Although we are not there yet, we are getting closer every day. Each step forward brings us closer to the security we all deserve. Let us not compromise on security, as doing so compromises everyone’s safety,” Buba added.

As he concluded his address, Buba reiterated the message: “In 2025, as you ‘dey for, who dey for you,’ know that ‘the military dey for you, dey for us.'”