Defence Minister Issues Shoot-on-Sight Order Against Terrorists

By Eshioromeh Sebastian

Nigeria’s Defence Minister, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), has issued a shoot-on-sight directive to all security forces operating in the nation’s conflict zones, warning that any operative who falters in the face of enemy action will be treated as an accomplice to terrorism.

The Defence Minister gave the order on Wednesday in Sokoto during a ceremony to commission newly acquired security assets procured by the state government.

The event also marked the official unveiling of a ₦27.6 billion security intervention fund, designated to bolster ongoing military operations against terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping across the Northwest and beyond.

Addressing a gathering of troops and security officials, Musa made it unequivocally clear that the era of waiting for clearance before engaging hostile elements is over.

He instructed all deployed personnel to act with immediate and decisive force whenever they encounter armed criminal groups.

“Once you are deployed, do not wait for any order from anybody to shoot any bandit or any terrorist,” the Minister declared.

He further underscored the gravity of his directive by spelling out the consequences for non-compliance. According to the Defence Chief, hesitation on the battlefield will no longer be tolerated and will be interpreted as a betrayal of duty.

“Anybody who refuses to shoot or kill any bandit or terrorist in the name of waiting for an order, we will treat you like a bandit. This is a general order,” Musa warned.

The shoot-on-sight order comes as part of a broader strategy to reclaim the initiative from non-state armed groups that have terrorised rural communities for years. The newly commissioned assets—which include armoured personnel carriers, tactical vehicles, and 300 motorcycles—are expected to enhance surveillance capabilities, intelligence-gathering, and rapid response times in vulnerable areas.

Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State, who hosted the event, described the procurement as one of the largest single investments in internal security by any sub-national government. He stressed that the equipment would significantly boost the operational effectiveness of security agencies and reinforce ongoing efforts to protect lives and property.

Governor Aliyu also noted that security remains the bedrock of economic growth and sustainable development, adding that his administration would continue to invest in initiatives that complement the Federal Government’s broader peace restoration agenda. He commended President Bola Tinubu, the Armed Forces, and other security agencies for their sustained support.

In a symbolic gesture of appreciation, the Sokoto State Government honoured the Defence Minister by naming a major road in the metropolis General Christopher Musa Road.

Responding to the honour, Musa praised the Sokoto State Government for prioritising security, describing the investment as a demonstration of strong leadership and genuine commitment to public safety.

He called on residents to continue supporting security agencies with credible intelligence, assuring Nigerians that the Armed Forces remain resolute in their mission to defeat criminal groups and restore lasting peace across the country.