President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed Nigeria’s service chiefs to relocate to Maiduguri, the Borno state capital.
This follows a wave of deadly attacks that left dozens killed and over 100 injured.
The directive comes after coordinated bombings reportedly carried out by suspected Boko Haram insurgents, which struck parts of the state on Monday evening.
Reacting to the incident before his official trip to the United Kingdom, the president expressed grief over the loss of lives and reaffirmed the government’s resolve to defeat terrorism.
According to him, “the recent news from Maiduguri, Borno State, is profoundly upsetting. I mourn those who lost their lives, sympathise with the injured and stand in solidarity with the people of Borno during this challenging time.”
He described the attacks as signs of weakening insurgent strength, stating: “I want to make it categorically clear that these acts of terror are the final desperate and frantic attempts by criminals and terrorist elements trying to instil and spread fear, as they are under constant pressure from our brave armed forces and security agencies operating in various theatres.
“We will continue to intensify our efforts against all criminal elements, wherever they may be.
“I must commend the courage and fighting spirit of our patriotic troops who successfully repelled the coordinated attacks by these terrorists on military positions in the state.
“The Monday attacks were desperate acts of the evil-minded terrorist groups. Our gallant military and civilian task forces will curtail and put them down.
“Just last weekend, during a security meeting with leaders of security and intelligence agencies, I approved additional equipment and operational support to enhance their capabilities. This effort is already in progress.”
Tinubu also commended security forces for repelling parts of the coordinated assault.
The president assured Nigerians of intensified military operations against insurgents across the country.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to eliminating terrorism nationwide.
