CDS Charges Borno, Yobe Residents to Lead Fight Against Terrorism

CDS Charges Borno, Yobe Residents to Lead Fight Against Terrorism

By Aliyu Hassan

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has called on residents of Borno and Yobe states to take a more active role in tackling insurgency, stressing that community participation is essential to ending terrorism in the North-East.

Speaking on Thursday after a comprehensive review of ongoing military operations against Boko Haram and ISWAP, Oluyede said the Armed Forces had identified strong community cooperation as a key factor in achieving lasting success.

According to him, military gains can only be sustained when local populations support security efforts, noting that insurgent activities often rely on assistance from within affected communities.

He expressed concern over intelligence indicating that some individuals, whether knowingly or unknowingly, provide support or shelter to terrorist elements. Such actions, he warned, weaken ongoing operations and prolong the hardship faced by innocent civilians.

The defence chief explained that many perpetrators of violence are not outsiders but people familiar with the community, including neighbours and acquaintances. He urged residents to overcome fear and personal ties by exposing those involved in criminal activities.

Oluyede emphasised that defeating terrorism requires collective effort, not just military action. He called on citizens to reject all forms of extremism and provide timely, credible information to security agencies.

In reference to the recent attack in Kukawa, he disclosed that follow-up operations discovered injured suspects within the community, implying potential internal cooperation.

He reaffirmed the military’s commitment to adapting its strategies to counter evolving threats, including the increasing use of drones and other advanced tools by insurgents.

The CDS also appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth organisations, and civil society groups to intensify their efforts to mobilise communities against violent extremism.

He stressed that building strong and resilient communities capable of resisting radical influence remains vital to restoring lasting peace in the region.

Oluyede urged residents to stay alert, report suspicious activities and work closely with security agencies, assuring Nigerians that the Armed Forces remain dedicated to protecting lives and stabilising the North-East.