DHQ: Military Does Not Negotiate with Terrorists or Support Payment of Ransom

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has reaffirmed its policy against negotiating with terrorists, bandits, and other criminal elements, as well as paying ransom to them. The military's primary focus is on kinetic operations, aiming to eliminate all terrorists operating in Nigeria or against its citizens. During a joint security press briefing, Major-General Samaila Uba, spokesperson for the Nigerian military, emphasized that the withdrawal of 200 US military personnel does not affect the ongoing collaboration to combat insurgents and maintain security in Nigeria, the Lake Chad Basin, and the Sahel region.

The spokesperson reiterated that the military does not support dialogue with terrorists or the payment of ransom. The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, highlighted the need to address the underlying conditions that foster insecurity, alongside counter-terrorism efforts. He stressed that lasting stability requires timely intelligence, effective coordination, conflict prevention, community engagement, responsible governance, and economic opportunities.

Musa affirmed that the federal government remains committed to strengthening security personnel's capacity and welfare, improving intelligence and inter-agency cooperation, and addressing the wider issues that undermine peace and development.