The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), has issued a stark directive to security personnel on the frontlines of Nigeria’s war against terrorism and banditry, warning that any officer who hesitates to engage terrorists under the pretext of awaiting orders will be treated as an accomplice.

Addressing troops and security chiefs at the commissioning of 62 armoured vehicles and more than 300 motorcycles procured by the Sokoto State Government for security agencies, Musa said the fight against violent crime demands swift, decisive action within the established rules of engagement.

“Anybody who refuses to shoot a terrorist in the name of waiting for an order, we will treat him like a bandit,” the minister declared, underscoring what he described as a zero-tolerance stance toward indecision in combat situations.

Musa, a retired general with years of operational experience in conflict zones, framed his message as both a warning and a call to professional duty. He stressed that the primary responsibility of the armed forces and other security agencies is to neutralise threats swiftly while safeguarding innocent lives.

At the same time, he cautioned personnel against turning their weapons and authority on the very people they are deployed to protect. He condemned harassment, extortion and other abuses of power, insisting that such conduct undermines public trust and fuels the very insecurity the government is trying to defeat.

The minister urged troops to uphold professionalism, discipline and accountability, noting that respect for human rights and adherence to rules of engagement are essential to sustaining local support and legitimacy.

Describing the newly commissioned armoured vehicles and motorcycles as a “major boost” to the state’s security architecture, Musa said the assets would significantly improve mobility and response time, particularly in remote and difficult terrain where bandits and terrorists often operate with impunity.

He observed that Nigeria’s security threats are constantly evolving, with criminal groups adapting tactics, exploiting porous borders and leveraging rugged landscapes to evade capture. In response, he said, security agencies must embrace intelligence-led operations, better coordination and rapid deployment capabilities.

Musa concluded that with enhanced equipment, clearer directives and a renewed emphasis on professionalism, security forces have no excuse for inaction in the face of terror, and will be held fully accountable for both their actions and their failures to act.