FG pushes back against Trump’s threat, touts successes in fight against terror
…says over 13,000 terrorists neutralised since 2023
The federal government on Wednesday responded to U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat of possible military action in Nigeria, highlighting gains in its campaign against Islamist militants and reaffirming its commitment to regional security and sovereignty.
According to Mohammed Idris, minister of information and national orientation, who addressed a press conference in Abuja this afternoon alongside Dele Alake, minister of solid minerals development, and other government spokespersons, “Since May 2023, our security agencies have neutralized more than 13,500 terrorists, arrested over 17,000 suspects, and rescued more than 9,800 victims abducted by terrorist elements, including women and children.”
Idris emphasised that the government remains committed to tackling terrorism across the country.
“The menace of terrorism in Nigeria does not target any single religious or ethnic group. Extremism is blind to religion, tribe, or class. It is a war against all peace-loving Nigerians,” he said.
He noted that Nigeria’s security challenges are compounded by regional instability, particularly in the Sahel, and local conflicts such as farmers-herders clashes in the North-Central region.
Idris also highlighted that President Bola Tinubu has overseen a strategic overhaul of the military and intelligence services to improve coordination, accountability, and operational effectiveness.
“The President’s directive is clear: every inch of Nigerian territory must be secured, and every citizen must live free from fear,” Idris said.
He added that, in addition to neutralising terrorists, security agencies have recovered over 5,000 military-grade rifles, intercepted more than 20 gun-running networks, and facilitated the surrender of over 124,000 insurgents and their families, who handed over more than 11,000 weapons.
Significant results were reported in specific regions. In Borno State, over 592 terrorists were neutralised in the past eight months.
In the North-West, 11,250 hostages were rescued, and high-profile terror leaders such as Ali Kachala and Boderi have been neutralised. The South-East has seen a reduction of nearly 80% in terror attacks, while operations in the North-Central have led to numerous arrests.
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Idris also highlighted ongoing prosecutions of key terror suspects, including leaders of the ANSARU group and other perpetrators, noting that 125 terrorists have already been convicted.
The minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s openness to international cooperation, including with the United States, and cited past and ongoing support such as the delivery of Super Tucano aircraft and the planned acquisition of AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters for the Nigerian Air Force.
“Nigeria welcomes dialogue, cooperation, and support from foreign nations in addressing our shared security concerns,” Idris said, calling for engagement as the most effective way to achieve peace and stability.
He assured Nigerians that the country remains in capable hands under President Tinubu, who is committed to securing the nation, strengthening military and intelligence capabilities, and boosting the economy.
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