Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru Abubakar has stated that Nigeria has terrorism and banditry under control, even though some citizens remain in captivity. Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja ahead of the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration, the minister, represented by Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, acknowledged the challenges posed by the evolving threats but praised the military’s adaptive strategies.

Badaru noted that the earlier misclassification of terrorism as banditry in the North West and North Central regions delayed efforts to fully address the issue. He clarified that the Nigerian Armed Forces now treat bandits as terrorists and insurgents, a shift that has improved the situation.

“Despite the ongoing challenges, the Nigerian military is continuously updating its tactics to counter the criminals’ evolving strategies,” the minister said. He also commended the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), which has significantly weakened insurgent groups, leading to the surrender of over 100,000 fighters and the elimination of key commanders.

He added that Nigeria recently re-engaged the Republic of Niger in the MNJTF to help secure the shared border, contributing to the overall success of the task force. According to the minister, these renewed military efforts have reduced security breaches across the country by 65% and boosted the nation’s oil production, which has doubled since last year.

Badaru emphasized the government’s commitment to rehabilitating former insurgents, despite public resistance, aiming to reintegrate them as peaceful, productive members of society.