Guns Aren’t Enough” — Tukur Yusuf Buratai Says Military Can’t End Nigeria’s Insecurity Alone

According to a post on X by security analyst Zagazola Makama, Buratai made the remarks during a recent interview on Channels Television, where he advocated for a “whole-of-society” strategy.

He explained that tackling insurgent groups like Boko Haram requires the involvement of all sectors of society, rather than leaving the responsibility entirely to the armed forces.

Buratai noted that while troops have remained active across various conflict zones, their efforts must be supported by effective governance, economic development, and social interventions from other government institutions and stakeholders.

He emphasised that addressing insecurity demands contributions from communities, government agencies, and other sectors through policies that promote development and social stability.

“The whole country is over-relying on the military,” he said, adding that different levels of government have key roles to play in resolving the crisis.

The former army chief referenced Nigeria’s 2019 National Security Strategy, which outlines a comprehensive approach that includes economic, social, and infrastructural solutions, but questioned how consistently it has been implemented.

He stressed that defeating insurgency goes beyond military action, pointing out that factors such as poverty, unemployment, and poor infrastructure continue to fuel instability.

Buratai highlighted the poor condition of roads in conflict areas as a major challenge, noting that it hampers troop movement and exposes soldiers to ambushes and improvised explosive devices.

“In some cases, an operation that should take two hours may stretch to five due to bad roads,” he explained, adding that such delays increase risks for personnel.

He said improving infrastructure, particularly road networks, would enhance military efficiency and reduce operational dangers.

Buratai also called on state governments to prioritise youth empowerment through job creation, skills development, and economic opportunities to prevent young people from being drawn into violence.

On the issue of exposing alleged sponsors of terrorism, he said the focus should be on decisive action rather than merely naming individuals, expressing concern that some suspects have yet to face prosecution.

He concluded that lasting peace can only be achieved through sustained collaboration between the military, government institutions, and society at large, adding that adopting a comprehensive, whole-of-society approach remains key to ending insecurity in Nigeria.