The new Minister of Defence-designate, General Christopher Musa, has ruled out every form of ransom payment or negotiation with terrorists.
He declared that such actions only strengthen criminal groups and endanger innocent Nigerians. His firm statement came during his ministerial screening on Wednesday.
General Musa, who recently completed his tenure as Chief of Army Staff, stressed that Nigeria must stop negotiating with criminals. He insisted that ransom payments give terrorists more time to regroup.
According to him, they use the funds to buy weapons, recruit new fighters, and plan fresh attacks.
He said communities that negotiated still suffered renewed attacks.
Consequently, he urged leaders at all levels to adopt one united stance against ransom payments. He warned that criminals exploit every form of compromise.
Furthermore, General Musa explained that Nigeria’s security challenges will persist until the country creates a functional national identity system.
He said a single national database must link citizens’ identities, bank transactions, and security records. This, he noted, will help authorities track criminals more easily.
General Musa stressed that ransom payments can be traced through the banking system.
Therefore, he insisted that the government must take strict action against individuals or groups who fund or assist terrorists. He added that terrorism cases must move faster in court. He said long delays weaken morale in the security forces.
He also compared Nigeria’s approach to that of other countries. He noted that many nations handle terrorism cases swiftly and decisively.
However, in Nigeria, cases drag on for years. He warned that long delays discourage the military units that risk their lives to make arrests.
General Musa called for urgent reforms. He said security agencies need better coordination and better intelligence tools.
In addition, he urged the National Assembly to support a comprehensive national data system. He stated that the fight against insecurity depends on accurate information.
Musa stressed that Nigeria must close financial loopholes. He added that terrorists thrive when the system allows anonymous transactions.
Therefore, he called for improved monitoring across all banking platforms.
With his strong stance, General Musa sent a clear message. He said the era of negotiations and ransom payments must end.
He insisted that Nigeria must confront terrorists with unity, strategy, and technology. He concluded that only a firm national position will protect communities from further attacks.