Buratai Urges Action Against Terrorism Financiers in Nigeria

In a recent television interview, former Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen.

Tukur Buratai (rtd) called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to take decisive action against terrorism financiers, asserting that military efforts alone are insufficient to eradicate insurgency. Buratai highlighted that merely identifying terrorist financiers is inadequate to tackle Nigeria's security challenges.

He noted that in March 2024, the government uncovered 15 entities allegedly involved in terrorism financing, including nine individuals and six Bureau de Change operators, but there has been little progress in prosecuting these suspects despite public outcry. Buratai emphasized that the military's role is limited and that a broader policy approach is necessary, involving rehabilitation of repentant insurgents and addressing deep-rooted societal issues.

He warned that the insurgency cannot be resolved quickly and requires sustained investment in infrastructure and social services. Buratai also pointed out operational challenges faced by the military, including workforce limitations and the vast terrain in the northeast.