Nigeria’s inability to defeat insurgency, despite years of military operations and resources, stems from both internal sabotage and external interference, according to Professor Khalifa Dikwa, a renowned political analyst.
According to a report by The Leadership, he warned that Nigeria is deep in crisis due to poor strategic decisions, especially the repeated retirement of experienced military officers. Highlighting this point, he stated, “Buhari retired 80 generals, Tinubu retired 113, so look at this wastage.”
Dikwa, who founded the Centre for Leadership Development, blamed past and present administrations for undermining the fight against insurgency.
He argued that competent generals, trained with national resources, are frequently forced out for political reasons. This weakens the military’s leadership and leaves Nigeria vulnerable to terrorist threats.
He criticized the government’s reluctance to recruit and equip soldiers properly. Referring to the Civil War era, he said the country then had the capacity to train and mobilize a million soldiers quickly, unlike today’s hesitant approach to fighting insurgents.
“It is just like training a doctor, and you allow outsiders to take them. They are never meant to end,” he lamented, suggesting foreign forces benefit from Nigeria’s insecurity.
Prof. Dikwa also alleged that some officials within the government might be sympathetic to insurgents, citing ex-President Jonathan’s past admission that Boko Haram had infiltrated his cabinet.
He emphasized that until Nigeria takes full ownership of its security architecture, halts politically motivated military retirements, and stops foreign meddling, true peace will remain elusive.
He further pointed out that weakening traditional institutions and ignoring sound advice are among the tactics used—both internally and externally—to destabilize the nation.
Find Verified News At Your fingertips Click The Button Below
