Terrorism’s New Surge Demands More Than Military Response -By Tochukwu Jimo Obi

The resurgence of terrorist activities in Nigeria has once again cast a dark shadow over the nation’s security landscape, raising urgent concerns about the safety of both civilians and military personnel. At a time when many Nigerians are still grappling with the devastating attack that claimed the life of Brigadier General Oseni Omoh Braimah and several soldiers in Borno State, another tragic incident has unfolded. An overnight assault has now led to the killing of Colonel I.A. Muhammad alongside other troops, again in Borno. These repeated losses underscore a troubling pattern that cannot be ignored.

What makes the situation even more alarming is that these incidents are not isolated. Reports indicate that at least six senior military officers have been killed by Boko Haram elements in less than two weeks. This frequency of attacks points to a renewed boldness and operational capacity among terrorist groups, suggesting that existing counter-terrorism strategies may be falling short. For a nation that has invested heavily in military operations against insurgency, such developments are both shocking and deeply unfortunate.

The evolving nature of terrorism in Nigeria demands immediate and decisive action. The increasing sophistication and persistence of these attacks indicate that terrorist groups are adapting, regrouping, and exploiting vulnerabilities within the system. This is no longer a crisis that can be managed with routine responses; it requires a comprehensive reassessment of national security priorities and tactics.

Perhaps one of the most disturbing revelations in recent days is the arrest of a 15-year-old child who allegedly participated in the attack that killed General Braimah. This chilling development highlights the growing trend of child recruitment by terrorist groups. The use of minors not only reflects the moral bankruptcy of these groups but also signals a deeper societal failure in protecting vulnerable children from exploitation and radicalisation.

The role of the Almajiri system in Northern Nigeria has come under renewed scrutiny in this context. While originally rooted in religious education, the system has, over time, become associated with large numbers of children living without proper care, education, or supervision. These conditions create a fertile ground for terrorist organisations seeking easily influenced recruits. Addressing this issue is critical to cutting off a major source of manpower for insurgent groups.

This problem is not confined to the North alone. Across the country, abandoned and neglected children are increasingly falling prey to criminal networks. Whether in urban slums or rural communities, the absence of social support systems leaves many young people vulnerable to recruitment into violent groups. Tackling this issue requires a nationwide commitment to child welfare and social protection.

State governors, particularly in the northern region, must take urgent responsibility for addressing the root causes of this crisis. Ensuring that children are not left to roam the streets without access to education, shelter, and proper care should be a top priority. While the federal government has a role to play, it is the state and local authorities who are closest to these communities and best positioned to implement meaningful interventions.

Religious and community leaders also have a crucial role in shaping societal attitudes. There must be a collective effort to promote responsible parenting and discourage the practice of having more children than can be adequately cared for. Without addressing these underlying social issues, efforts to combat terrorism will continue to face significant setbacks.

Ultimately, the fight against terrorism in Nigeria cannot rely solely on military force. It requires a coordinated approach involving government institutions, community members, and civil society. Citizens must be willing to provide timely and accurate information to security agencies, enabling them to respond effectively to emerging threats. Nigeria cannot afford to continue losing its brave military personnel to such senseless violence. The time for urgent, unified action is now.

Tochukwu Jimo Obi, a concerned Nigerian writes from Obosi in Anambra state.