REVEALED: How NGOs and International Agencies Fuel Boko Haram and Banditry - Ex-Military Commanders

Retired generals from the Nigerian Army, Navy, and Air Force have disclosed unsettling details about how non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international agencies, and other vested interests have contributed to the persistence of terrorism and violent crimes, including Boko Haram insurgency, in Nigeria. These revelations come amidst calls for more decisive action to combat terrorism, with the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, urging the Federal Government to seek the United Nations' assistance in investigating the source of arms flowing to terrorists.

Military Heroes Speak Out

Former high-ranking military officials, including ex-theatre commanders, general officers commanding (GOCs), and Air Force operational commanders, highlighted how some NGOs and international agencies covertly support insurgency under the guise of humanitarian assistance.

A retired GOC of 1 Division revealed: "Over the years, several arrests of insurgency financiers traced to the Middle East have been made. However, these efforts often become entangled in political controversies, leaving perpetrators unpunished." He pointed to socio-economic failures, such as widespread illiteracy and poverty, as factors driving recruitment into terrorist groups.

The Role of External Influence

Former theatre commanders decried the lack of international cooperation and the deliberate sabotage of Nigeria's efforts. They noted that despite military successes, arms continue to flow to terrorist groups, with some suggesting that clandestine international operations aim to destabilize the Sahel region, including Nigeria.

One ex-theatre commander highlighted: "The triangle of Zamfara, Sokoto, Niger, and Katsina states, rich in uranium and gold, is under daily attack by terrorists and bandits. It's not about military capacity but a deliberate attempt by certain interests to keep Nigeria insecure."

NGOs as Hidden Facilitators?

A former Air Officer Commanding (AOC) stated: "Many NGOs operating in the North-East and other regions are covertly involved in sponsoring terrorism. Intelligence reports have linked them to arms inflows and funding for bandits." He added that calls for foreign mercenaries are often instigated by these organizations when the military is gaining an upper hand.

He further alleged that unregistered aircraft land at night in remote locations, delivering arms and ammunition to terrorists. "These covert activities undermine the heroic efforts of our armed forces," he said.

Arms Destruction and Recovery Efforts

Despite these challenges, Nigeria's armed forces and security agencies continue to make significant strides in curbing terrorism. The National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW) recently destroyed over 2,400 illicit small arms and light weapons. Between January and December 2024, the Defence Headquarters reported the recovery of 8,815 weapons and 228,004 rounds of ammunition, including AK-47 rifles, fabricated guns, and assorted ammunition.

Way Forward: Recommendations from Experts

Military experts and retired generals emphasized the need for:

Regulation of NGOs: Strict monitoring and regulation of NGOs operating in conflict zones to prevent misuse of humanitarian aid.

Improved Socio-Economic Conditions: Massive investments in education, healthcare, and job creation to reduce youth vulnerability to recruitment by terrorists.

International Collaboration: Enhanced cooperation with global organizations to track arms and fund flows to terrorist groups.

Legislative Action: Enacting laws to regulate religious teachings and promote state policing for improved local security.

Conclusion

The persistence of terrorism in Nigeria is a multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive, collaborative approach. While the military continues to demonstrate resilience and effectiveness, addressing socio-economic inequalities and curbing the covert operations of NGOs and international agencies remain critical. As the Chief of Defence Staff noted, inviting the United Nations to investigate the sources of arms inflows is a step in the right direction to ensure lasting peace.

Extracts From Vanguard Newspaper