Amanze Chinonye
Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has said the success of Nigeria’s fight against banditry and terrorism depends largely on the support of local communities, stressing that security forces face an uphill battle when residents protect or sympathise with criminal elements, Prime Business Africa reports.
Speaking at a town hall meeting on state policing organised by Arise News in Abuja on Thursday, July 9, 2026, Musa said many terrorists and bandits live and operate within the communities they attack, making local intelligence indispensable to security operations.
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According to the Defence Minister, community cooperation can significantly enhance the military’s ability to identify, track and dismantle criminal networks, while a lack of public support gives terrorists and bandits the space to hide, regroup and continue their activities.
“These terrorists live within the communities, and if the communities are on their side, it makes it difficult for security forces to win the battle. If the communities are with the security forces, it makes it a lot easier,” Musa said.
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The minister’s remarks underscore the critical role of community-based intelligence in addressing Nigeria’s worsening security challenges, particularly in areas affected by banditry, terrorism and kidnapping.
They also reinforce growing calls for stronger collaboration between residents and security agencies as the country considers reforms, including the proposed establishment of state police.
The comments come amid an ongoing national debate on state policing, with advocates arguing that decentralising policing would strengthen grassroots security, improve intelligence gathering and enable faster responses to emerging threats.
Musa’s remarks suggest that, regardless of the policing structure eventually adopted, meaningful community cooperation will remain central to Nigeria’s efforts to restore security, dismantle criminal networks and improve public safety.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
