Senator Ali Ndume has raised serious concerns about Nigeria’s fight against Boko Haram. Click the link below to read the full story.
“Terrorists have outgunned our troops.” That was the alarming statement from Senator Ali Ndume as he raised fresh concerns over Nigeria’s fight against Boko Haram insurgency, warning that soldiers on the frontlines lack adequate weapons and equipment to defeat the terrorists.
Ndume, who represents Borno South Senatorial District, made the revelations during an interview where he described the situation in the North East as critical, stressing that Nigerian soldiers are brave and committed but are being forced to fight terrorists with inferior equipment.
Speaking on recent attacks in Ngoshe, the senator explained that soldiers had to carry out a tactical withdrawal when insurgents attacked because they lacked adequate ammunition, MRAPs, and gun trucks.
According to him, the soldiers later regrouped and reclaimed the area, but he insisted that such incidents would not happen if the military was properly equipped.
He maintained that Nigerian soldiers are gallant and determined but cannot defeat terrorists who attack with more sophisticated weapons.
Ndume painted a grim picture of the situation in communities affected by insurgency, revealing that some towns have been completely destroyed and residents displaced.
He specifically mentioned Gwoza, which he said had been burned down, forcing residents to take refuge in Pulka where they are currently living in a primary school camp.
Despite the hardship, he said many residents are willing to return to their communities if the military is properly equipped and security restored.
The senator also revealed that some soldiers fighting insurgents are living in temporary shelters made of grass and thatch because their facilities were destroyed.
He noted that while the morale of the soldiers remains high, they are gradually becoming demoralized due to lack of equipment, ammunition, and proper welfare.
He further revealed that a private soldier earns about ₦100,000 monthly and receives a feeding allowance of about ₦3,000 per day, which he said is not enough considering the risks they take.
Despite his criticisms, Ndume commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for steps taken so far, including declaring a state of emergency on security, increasing army recruitment, and expanding training depots.
However, he stressed that more needs to be done, especially in providing equipment, weapons, training, and motivation for troops.
He said the President may not be fully aware of the situation on ground and expressed hope that his message would reach him through the media.
Ndume proposed what he called the TEAM strategy to end insurgency:
T – Training
E – Equipment
A – Ammunition
M – Motivation
He said if Nigerian troops are properly trained, equipped, armed, and motivated, they would defeat insurgents within a short time.
He also emphasized the need for stronger air support, including attack helicopters stationed in insurgency hotspots.
The senator also revealed that the Borno State government has been spending heavily to support the military with vehicles, logistics, and food for soldiers but noted that the state government does not have enough resources to sustain the war effort alone.
He therefore called on the Federal Government to increase funding and support for the military and security agencies.
Listen to top Radio Stations in Abia State CLICK HERE
Support Afnews Independent Journalism
At Afnews, we are dedicated to providing accurate, insightful, and timely news coverage. Our commitment to journalistic integrity ensures that you receive trustworthy information, unfiltered and unbiased. To maintain our independence and continue delivering quality content, we rely on the support of our readers.
If you value the work we do, please consider making a contribution. Your support enables us to keep bringing you the stories that matter.
Donate today and help us keep independent journalism alive. Thank you for your support!
