The Federal Government has revealed that a significant number of terrorists responsible for deadly attacks in northern Nigeria are not Nigerian citizens.
According to the government, many of the fighters gained entry into the country through weak and porous borders.
The disclosure was made by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, during a meeting with members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria in Abuja on Sunday.
Akume said intelligence reports from security agencies indicated that several suspects arrested after recent attacks were unable to speak English or Hausa. Instead, he noted that they communicated fluently in French, a language not widely spoken in the affected communities.
“Do we speak French in Nigeria? No,” he said, describing it as clear evidence of foreign involvement.
He stated that although Boko Haram originated in Nigeria, most of the armed men currently operating from forests and remote settlements are foreigners. He cited parts of Niger State and other areas in the North-Central region as examples.
“Those who are doing the killings, most of them are from outside the country. I say what I know to be true based on security reports,” Akume stated.
The SGF described insecurity as a global phenomenon rather than a challenge unique to Nigeria, noting that even advanced nations are grappling with similar threats.
He also highlighted Nigeria’s expanding collaboration with international partners. According to him, the government has reinforced security operations with new military assets, including drones procured from Turkey. He added that engagements with the United States and other allies are ongoing to strengthen intelligence sharing and counter-terrorism strategies.
Addressing reports about reintegrating repentant terrorists into the military, Akume clarified that the proposal was rejected and never implemented under the current administration of President Bola Tinubu.
He urged religious leaders and civil society organisations to adopt a balanced and informed approach to discussions on the security crisis. He further reminded them that the insecurity situation predates the present administration.
The statement comes amid continued attacks in several northern states, where banditry and insurgency persist in forested areas and farming communities across Borno, Yobe, Sokoto, Niger and Kwara states.
