Nigeria Defence Minister Orders Soldiers to Shoot Terrorists on Sight

Nigeria's Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa, has issued a stark directive to security forces: "Once you are deployed, do not wait for any order from anybody to shoot any bandit or any terrorist." He warned that any operative who hesitates to neutralize criminals under the guise of awaiting orders will be treated as a collaborator.

“

Once you are deployed, do not wait for any order from anybody to shoot any bandit or any terrorist.

Musa delivered this charge in Sokoto State while commissioning 62 operational vehicles and security equipment valued at ₦27.127 billion. The procurement was funded by the Sokoto State Government to enhance security operations across the region. The minister lauded Governor Ahmed Aliyu for his consistent support to security agencies through logistics and equipment, calling the intervention a "demonstration of strategic leadership."

“

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.

Describing himself as "a proud son of Sokoto," Musa highlighted the state's relative peace, attributing it to collaboration between the government, security agencies, and residents. He emphasized that the newly acquired armored vehicles and tactical equipment would improve mobility, intelligence gathering, and force protection in the ongoing fight against banditry, terrorism, and kidnapping.

“

This event is not merely the unveiling of security assets. It is a demonstration of strategic leadership, responsible governance and our collective determination to strengthen the security architecture of Sokoto State and Nigeria as a whole.

However, the minister cautioned security personnel against mishandling the expensive assets, reminding them that the equipment must serve its intended purpose. He urged professionalism, stressing the importance of protecting innocent citizens while taking decisive action against criminals. "You are not to go there and extort or harass the people. You are there to protect them and work with them to eliminate bandits and terrorists operating within your area," Musa stated.

“

I am a proud son of Sokoto.