Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has summoned the country’s top military commanders to an emergency meeting following a series of recent attacks on military formations in the North-East.
The meeting, currently taking place at the headquarters of the Ministry of Defence Nigeria in Abuja, is aimed at reviewing military strategies to address the worsening security situation in the region.
Among those attending the meeting are the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede; the Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shaibu; the Chief of Air Staff, Sunday Aneke; and the Chief of Naval Staff, Idi Abass. Representatives of the National Intelligence Agency are also present.
The meeting comes amid a surge in attacks by suspected terrorists on military bases in the North-East, particularly in Borno State.
Reports indicate that at least three Commanding Officers holding the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel were recently killed during separate attacks by insurgents in the region.
In addition to the slain officers, several soldiers were also killed, while hundreds of civilians reportedly abducted by the insurgents remain in captivity.
Speaking briefly before the meeting proceeded into a closed-door session, Musa said the gathering was intended to reassess ongoing military operations and strengthen the fight against terrorist groups.
“We know we have recorded some casualties, but it is more on the side of the terrorists,” the retired four-star general said.
The Defence Ministry is expected to announce further measures after the high-level security meeting. More details are expected to emerge as discussions continue.
