“Terrorists Outgun Our Soldiers” — Ndume Urges Urgent Military Upgrade

Senator Ali Ndume has warned that Boko Haram insurgents currently possess superior firepower to Nigerian troops, calling on President Bola Tinubu to urgently improve military equipment and support.

The Borno South senator made the remarks while reacting to a recent attack in Ngoshe, where soldiers reportedly suffered casualties and were forced to retreat due to insufficient arms and logistics.

According to him, the withdrawal was not due to lack of courage but inadequate resources.

“The army in Ngoshe… had to withdraw because they didn’t have enough arms, ammunition, and the right equipment, especially MRAPs and gun trucks,” he said.

Ndume emphasized that troops later returned and recaptured the area, but warned that the underlying problem remains unresolved.

“They don’t have the adequate equipment or ammunition required for a task force battalion… I’ve gone there myself. I’ve seen what they have,” he added.

He reiterated concerns that without urgent intervention, insurgents could gain more ground in Borno and across the North-East, though he clarified that sensitive intelligence is shared directly with security agencies rather than publicly.

Commending President Tinubu’s efforts so far—including increased recruitment and security reforms—Ndume nonetheless urged stronger action.

“Mr. President… has declared a state of emergency on security… that is commendable… but once they don’t have the training, equipment, ammunition, and motivation, the task cannot be achieved,” he said.

The senator described worsening humanitarian conditions in affected communities, noting that Gwoza has been largely destroyed, with displaced residents now living in temporary camps in Pulka.

Despite the hardship, he said residents are willing to return home if security improves and reconstruction begins.

Ndume also highlighted the difficult conditions faced by troops, revealing that some soldiers live in makeshift shelters and lack basic combat tools.

“If they have all these things, these ragtag terrorists cannot face the Nigerian army,” he said, stressing that poor equipment is undermining otherwise capable forces.

He further pointed to low welfare conditions, noting that a private soldier earns about ₦100,000 monthly, with a feeding allowance of ₦3,000 per day.

“These are not intelligence matters. These are facts on the ground,” he said.

To end the insurgency, Ndume called for a comprehensive strategy focused on training, equipment, ammunition, and motivation, alongside improved air power.

“There should be attack helicopters permanently located… particularly anywhere they have a brigade,” he advised.

While praising the Borno State governor for supporting security operations, he noted that the state’s resources are limited and cannot replace federal responsibility.

Ndume concluded by urging the Federal Government to act decisively, warning that failure to fully equip troops could prolong the conflict and worsen insecurity in the region.

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