Sir: It is a known fact that security personnel, at all times, are ready to pay the supreme price, whenever they are in line of action. Their patriotism and unrelenting effort in tackling insecurity is partly why we sleep comfortably at night.
Worrisome however, are reports that our gallant troops, who protect our territorial integrity and lives, are slaughtered like guinea pigs, during terrorists’ ambushed attacks.
Last Saturday was a black day as troops of the Nigerian Army, alongside two Police officers, were killed around Danjibga axis in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State, in an ambush.
The attack on the troops by bandits is in retaliation of several attacks launched by troops on different bandit camps in the state, leading to the death of numerous terrorists and destruction of their camps and ‘operational’ motorcycles, among others.
Zamfara State has been battling with insecurity for nearly a decade. The Nigerian military however, must be commended for leading the war to end banditry in the troubled north-central state, and also, general insecurity in the country.
But winning the war demands our collective support. The federal government, the military, other security agencies and citizens must join forces and come up with a portent strategy for tackling terrorists and other criminal elements, holding our dear nation to ransom.
That is why having a multifaceted approach to the fight against insecurity is imperative. Firstly, the military’s intelligence-gathering system must be enhanced. It will help in quickly identifying the movements and plans of terrorists and other armed groups.
Strengthening collaboration between various security agencies and investing in technology, such as surveillance and communication equipment, are also vital.
Again, there is the need to also equip our troops with modern and sophisticated ammunition, even as the government must allocate adequate resources to ensure that the military has the tools and knowledge needed to adapt to evolving security threats. This will also help its troops navigate the challenging terrains often exploited by insurgent groups, during gunfire battles.
Community engagement remains a linchpin in the fight against insecurity. Local populations can play a pivotal role in providing credible intelligence, as they possess invaluable knowledge about their communities.
Establishing trust between the military and communities is paramount for building a united front against insurgency, equally. Addressing the root causes of violent conflicts in the country is another thing that cannot be overemphasized.
Beneficial socio-economic policies and sound development initiatives, focused on providing education, healthcare, and employment opportunities, can help to dissuade our youths from being recruited into armed and terror groups.
By addressing the underlying issues, the government can reduce the appeal of insurgency, banditry, robbery and oil theft, among other crimes. And marginalized populations will not find cause to take to criminalities and heinous vices for survival.
Furthermore, international collaboration is crucial in tackling cross-border security threats. Zamfara’s proximity to neighbouring countries should necessitate coordinated efforts to prevent armed groups from exploiting regional vulnerabilities.
In the same vein, collaborative intelligence sharing, joint patrols, and diplomatic initiatives can contribute to a more robust defence against insurgencies.
In summary, curbing the spate of ambush attacks on troops in Zamfara and other states afflicted by terrorism and banditry requires a holistic strategy, combining intelligence, technology, community engagement, and socioeconomic development.
Let’s hope that those saddled with piloting the affairs of our dear nation summon the political will to do the needful, this time around.
•Kabir Fagge Ali,
PRNigeria Centre, Abuja.
