Defence Minister: Sambisa Forest Size Complicates Security

Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), Nigeria's Minister of Defence, defended the government's efforts to combat insecurity during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today. He emphasized the challenges posed by the vast size of Sambisa Forest, which he compared to Belgium, stating that its expansive terrain complicates rescue operations.

Musa explained that security forces are actively rescuing abducted victims but face difficulties as terrorists often escape into the forest before troops can respond. He mentioned that the forest spans approximately 923 square kilometers, making it seem deceptively small to those unfamiliar with its scale.

Musa also highlighted that terrorists frequently abandon captives when pressured by security forces and that blocking their access to supplies is crucial. He urged state governors to reconsider distributing motorcycles as palliatives, warning they could be misused by terrorists.

Additionally, Musa noted that the Central Bank of Nigeria is working to track funds linked to criminal activities, including ransom payments.