Tinubu Orders Immediate, Ruthless Offensive Against Terrorists, Bandits
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a firm directive to the Nigerian Armed Forces to intensify the fight against terrorists, bandits, and other criminal elements across the country.
The President, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Nigerian Army Day celebration held on Saturday, July 6, 2025, in Kaduna State, declared that the time to decisively crush the enemies of the nation is now.
Tinubu’s remarks come in the wake of a wave of deadly attacks that have claimed the lives of both civilians and soldiers in recent weeks.
He stressed that Nigeria can no longer tolerate the threats posed by insurgents, bandits, and separatist groups, and called on the military to maintain professionalism, discipline, and operate strictly within constitutional boundaries while carrying out their duties.
“Our armed forces must confront the agents of darkness and instability with every sense of purpose and patriotism,” the President stated.
“Let it be known that this administration will provide all necessary support, equipment, and welfare to enable our troops to carry out their mandate effectively.”
This latest directive follows a series of brutal attacks, including the ambush and killing of 17 soldiers in Niger State and the massacre of over 150 civilians in Yelewata, Benue State.
The President had earlier condemned these killings and ordered immediate security action, with promises to ensure those responsible are arrested and brought to justice.
Human rights group Amnesty International recently reported that nearly 6,900 people were killed in Benue State and another 2,630 in Plateau State within the first two years of President Tinubu’s administration, highlighting the scale of violence plaguing the Middle Belt region and beyond.
Tinubu reiterated his administration’s resolve to restore peace and order, emphasizing that the fight against terror and banditry is not just a military campaign but a moral duty to protect the lives and dignity of all Nigerians
He pledged greater investment in military intelligence, acquisition of modern equipment, and the continuous welfare of soldiers, adding that no region or group will be spared if found complicit in sponsoring or harbouring criminal activities.
The President’s order signals a renewed push to curb insecurity as the country battles a complex web of violent threats from Boko Haram in the northeast to armed banditry and kidnapping in the northwest and north-central regions.
As military operations intensify, Nigerians wait to see whether the new urgency will translate into lasting security and justice for communities devastated by years of violence.
