The National Initiative for Peace and Security (NIPS) has cautioned against what it described as the growing politicisation of national security efforts, warning that such actions could undermine ongoing gains recorded in the fight against insecurity across Nigeria.

In its latest quarterly review of the security situation in the country, the organisation commended the Armed Forces of Nigeria for what it called significant operational achievements recorded in the first quarter of 2026 across multiple theatres of operation.

According to NIPS, coordinated military offensives under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, resulted in the neutralisation of over 200 terrorists, the arrest of nearly 300 suspects, and the rescue of about 188 kidnapped civilians in April alone.

Led by Mr. Adams Kings, the group noted that these operations were carried out across the North-East, North-West, North-Central, South-South, and South-East regions, reflecting improved coordination among security agencies and a more structured approach to counter-insurgency and internal security operations.

It described the period as a defining phase in Nigeria’s security response, pointing to what it called a shift from reactive firefights to targeted operations aimed at dismantling the logistics, funding, and support networks of criminal groups.

“In the North-East, sustained offensives have continued to degrade insurgent strongholds with the killing of over 130 terrorists. Similar disruptions were recorded in the North-West through bandit neutralisation and victim rescues,” the report stated.

NIPS further highlighted ongoing efforts to destroy criminal camps, illegal arms production sites, and supply chains, noting that such strategies were critical to weakening the long-term capacity of armed groups to regroup and sustain operations.

The organisation also commended the military for conducting operations in line with established rules of engagement and humanitarian standards, adding that the rescue of civilians, including women, children, and farmers, had helped restore confidence in state institutions in affected communities.

However, despite acknowledging the gains, NIPS expressed concern over what it described as attempts by certain political actors to politicise security operations and undermine public trust in the military.

“While democratic systems thrive on debate and dissent, NIPS notes with concern that certain political actors have adopted narratives that undermine the morale of security forces and distort public perception of ongoing efforts,” the group said.

It warned that dismissing verified security successes, amplifying fear without context, or framing national security challenges purely as political tools could inadvertently strengthen criminal propaganda and embolden armed groups.

The organisation stressed that national security should remain a collective responsibility, free from political rivalry, warning that ordinary citizens and frontline security personnel often bear the consequences of politicised narratives.

NIPS, however, acknowledged that challenges remain, noting that criminal groups continue to adapt tactics, exploit difficult terrain, and take advantage of local grievances in some parts of the country.

It recommended sustained military pressure, enhanced intelligence gathering, improved funding and logistics support for security agencies, and stronger civil-military cooperation to consolidate existing gains.

“National security should not be trivialised or weaponised for political gain. All actors must recognise that their words carry consequences beyond political advantage,” the organisation warned.

NIPS concluded that while the first quarter of 2026 reflects improved effectiveness in military operations, sustaining progress would require national unity, strategic consistency, and a non-partisan approach to security management across all levels of government and society.

(The Guardian)

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