Relocation of Service Chiefs to Sokoto is Not Enough
By Habibu Bawa,
Recent events in the Sokoto axis of Northwestern Nigeria have raised alarm. The death of the traditional ruler of Gobir, the relentless bandit attacks on Matsugi village in Zamfara’s Mafara Local Government Area, the floods in Argungu, Kebbi, and Gummi in Zamfara, and the killing of a Police DPO in Danko Wasagu Local Government, are just a few examples.
Even more troubling, notorious bandit kingpin Bello Turji recently claimed to have defeated the Nigerian military, forcing soldiers to flee and abandon their armored vehicle. In videos circulating on TikTok, bandits were seen flaunting ransom money, further stoking tensions and compelling the federal government to take drastic action.
In response, the Minister of State for Defence and the Service Chiefs were ordered to relocate to Sokoto to lead a military offensive against the bandits. The government emphasized that this decision was driven by the escalating threats posed by banditry and terrorism in the region. Military assets were also deployed to flush out the insurgents. Yet, while these steps have been well-publicized, it leaves one to question: why have local hunters, quietly defeating the bandits without fanfare, achieved victories that speak for themselves?
Nigeria’s military is no stranger to internal security operations. From fighting Boko Haram in the Northeast, to addressing Biafran and Oduduwa movements in the Southeast and Southwest, dealing with banditry in the Northwest, and ethnic crises in North Central Nigeria, the military’s involvement is widespread. Unfortunately, these operations often face compromises. Terrorists and bandits frequently seem to receive warnings ahead of military offensives, undermining their effectiveness.
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Sun Tzu, in his renowned work The Art of War, stressed the importance of defeating enemies without direct confrontation. He emphasized strategy, deception, and psychological warfare over brute force. These same principles were echoed by Robert Greene in The 33 Strategies of War. Like a skilled fisherman relying on the right bait rather than the size of the boat, the Nigerian military must recognize that sophisticated strategies often yield better results than sheer military strength.
While the Nigerian military is among Africa’s best equipped and trained, one factor critical to the success of any operation is the welfare of its personnel. Despite billions of dollars spent on defense in recent years—$2.57 billion in 2020, $4.47 billion in 2021, $3.11 billion in 2022, and $3.2 billion in 2023—frontline soldiers continue to grapple with inadequate pay and poor living conditions. Many struggle to stretch their meager salaries to last through the month, despite putting their lives on the line daily.
To improve the morale and effectiveness of the military, the government must take urgent steps to enhance the welfare of its soldiers. Increasing pay, offering better welfare packages, and providing lifetime allowances for the families of fallen soldiers will instill a greater sense of patriotism and commitment among active personnel. Soldiers must know that their sacrifices are valued and that their families will be cared for if they lose their lives in service to the nation.
One recurring challenge in Nigeria’s military offensives is the tendency to publicize operations. This has often led to counterproductive outcomes, as insurgents and bandits are tipped off in advance, allowing them to retreat and regroup. Instead, the military needs to adopt a more offensive and covert approach to combat banditry effectively.
To achieve lasting results, the military should establish additional bases in areas such as Sabon Birni, Zurmi, Anka, Tsafe, and Wasagu. Increasing personnel in these high-risk zones, coupled with the strategic use of advanced technology, such as drones and surveillance equipment, will enable the military to better monitor and neutralize threats before they escalate. This proactive approach is essential for a sustained fight against banditry.
In conclusion, while the relocation of Service Chiefs to Sokoto is a step in the right direction, long-term success in combating banditry requires a more nuanced approach. The Nigerian military must adopt strategic offensives, improve soldiers’ welfare, and utilize cutting-edge technology. Only then can the region see lasting peace and stability.
