Military Increases Patrols to Protect Farmers in Nigeria

As Nigeria approaches the 2026 farming season, the military is intensifying patrols to safeguard farmers in vulnerable agricultural communities following a series of deadly attacks. Maj Gen Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, confirmed in an interview that military presence will be increased in flashpoints to allow farmers to operate without fear.

The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed no fewer than 11,000 agro rangers nationwide to bolster farmer protection. Afolabi Babawal, spokesman for the NSCDC, emphasized the importance of maintaining partnerships with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture to secure agricultural assets.

Recent violent incidents, including the reported killings of at least 40 farmers in January 2025 linked to ISWAP and Boko Haram, have raised alarms about food security. The NSCDC is prepared to deploy specially trained personnel to ensure the safety of farmers amid ongoing conflicts between farmers and herders, which have resulted in significant casualties and displacement.