Technically, We Have Defeated Boko Haram Terrorist – Buratai
The chief of Army staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusuf Buratai, Tuesday, supported the posits of the minister of information, Mr. Lai Muhammed, saying that Nigerian soldiers have technically defeated Boko Haram terrorist group in the country.
A statement that was frowned by many following repeated attacks by those terrorists.
However, speaking during the opening ceremony of the Combat Support Arms Training Week 2018, Buratai assured Nigerians that their gallant soldiers would do everything possible to flush out the remaining Boko Haram terrorists and other criminal elements from the country.
His statement reads thus: “The COSAT Week is an annual event organised on a rotational basis among the Combat Support Arms of the NA in which they brainstorm to re-strategize towards combating contemporary security challenges.
‘It is gratifying to note that outcome of previous COSAT Weeks has been instrumental in the formation of major policies for the NA. This year’s training week is coming at a time when the Nation and the military is at the threshold of completely routing out the remnants of Boko Haram Terrorists from our territory and also when the fight to eliminate other criminal elements are on top gear.
‘However, the activities of armed militias in recent times have become prominent, especially in areas of kidnapping, farmers/herders clashes and cattle rustling. It is against this background that I commend the choice of this training week theme which is “Strengthening Combat Support Arms Cooperation in Contemporary Security Challenges”.
The Lecture topics as reflected in the Programme of Events indicates we are on track in the actualization of my vision of enhancing professionalism in the Nigeria Army through seminars, workshops, maintenance of equipment and training exercises for improved responsiveness to constitutional roles. I am glad to state that significant progress has been made and successes recorded especially in the ongoing operations such as Operation LAFIYA DOLE and Operation LAST HOLD in the North East. Our troops have been able to carry out timely and synchronized operations in these operations, thereby denying Boko Haram terrorists and other criminals freedom of actions.
This therefore calls for more efforts and synergy of all to achieve the desired end state of enduring peace that will enhance developments in the country. The Boko Haram Terrorist group has been technically defeated.
However, there is still more to be done. Therefore, we must remain focused and be proactive at all time. As Combat Support Arms, you have a major role to play in the final defeat of the Terrorists.
‘Let me reaffirm that the current transformation within the NA is in line with my resolve to develop a highly professional, responsive and functional army capable of conducting all ground operations using own resources. We shall continue to do our best within available resources to better the welfare of personnel. As the Year 2019 election is approaching, let me remind us that we must continue to conform to the tenets of democracy and democratic values. You must strive to remain apolitical at all times and in all circumstances.’
