Former Chief of Army Staff and ex-Nigerian Ambassador to Benin Republic, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (retd.), has urged the Federal Government to adopt a nationwide mobilisation strategy similar to the COVID-19 lockdown to combat terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping across Nigeria.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Friday, Buratai stressed that insecurity should no longer be seen as a military responsibility alone, but as a national crisis that requires collective sacrifice from all Nigerians.
“When there are national crises, we need to mobilise everybody, not just the military alone,” Buratai said. “Look at COVID-19, how much was spent, how much was invested into information, communication, advertisement, palliatives, and preventive measures. The whole nation was locked down because of COVID-19. We can do the same thing … to deal with terrorists and bandits.”
Buratai recalled that during his tenure as Army Chief, he had warned government officials that the insurgency could last far longer than anticipated without a long-term plan. He also pointed to past examples of national unity, such as the Maiduguri flood disaster response, where Nigerians rallied together to support Borno State.
His comments come as insecurity continues to worsen. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) recently raised alarm over rising violations of the right to life, noting that more than 50 Nigerians were killed in separate attacks within just one week.
Nigeria’s security crisis has expanded beyond the northeast insurgency to include banditry in the northwest, kidnappings nationwide, and rising attacks on rural communities. Analysts argue that the scale of the problem requires more than just military campaigns — it demands whole-of-society mobilisation, including psychological awareness, grassroots engagement, and stronger governance accountability.
Buratai’s proposal echoes calls from civil society groups who believe that public participation, communication campaigns, and community vigilance could complement military action and restore confidence in the state.
While his call for a “COVID-19 style lockdown” against insecurity may spark debate, Buratai’s central message is clear: defeating terrorism and banditry will require shared responsibility, not just soldiers on the battlefield. His remarks underline the urgent need for a comprehensive, long-term strategy that mobilises citizens, strengthens security agencies, and rebuilds trust in Nigeria’s ability to protect its people.
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