Nigeria’s military is set to adopt new strategies, including enhanced counter-drone operations and stronger collaboration with local communities, as part of efforts to address the renewed wave of attacks in Borno State.
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, disclosed this while speaking to journalists in Maiduguri during a visit to assess the security situation, following recent bombings and attacks in the state. He was accompanied by other service chiefs.
General Oluyede attributed the resurgence of violence to a mix of seasonal trends, insider support within communities, and the evolving tactics of insurgent groups.
“The attacks, while concerning, are not unprecedented and tend to intensify during the Ramadan period,” he said.
According to the CDS, the purpose of the visit was to evaluate recent developments, draw lessons, and strengthen measures to prevent future occurrences. He noted that the prolonged insurgency requires continuous adjustment in both military strategy and operational approach.
He stressed that community involvement remains crucial in tackling the crisis, warning that local complicity has continued to aid terrorist activities. “Many perpetrators are known within affected communities,” he said, citing cases where injured insurgents were traced back to local residents after attacks.
The Defence Chief also pointed to a shift in the methods used by insurgents, particularly the increasing deployment of drones and other advanced technologies, which are challenging the military’s recent gains.
“The Armed Forces are responding by deploying countermeasures, including drone-jamming systems, while studying adversary technologies to strengthen operational resilience,” he added.
General Oluyede further revealed that the military is investing in additional counter-drone systems and research initiatives to effectively combat emerging threats, while sustaining pressure on insurgent groups across the region.
He reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ commitment to maintaining territorial gains and preventing a return to large-scale violence, noting that long-term success will depend on both military efficiency and stronger cooperation between security agencies and local communities.
