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A security adviser to the Sokoto State Government, Col. Ahmed Usman (retd.), has noted that the continued reliance on conventional tactics is leaving troops vulnerable to deadly ambushes by terrorists and bandits, calling for an urgent overhaul of Nigeria’s security strategy.
Usman, in a press statement, observed that the spate of attacks on security operatives across the country highlights a deeper operational flaw rather than any failure of courage by the armed forces.
According to him, these tragic incidents are not a reflection of weakness or lack of bravery on the part of our armed forces but stem from the strategy and approach currently being deployed against a highly unconventional enemy.
He stated, “Nigeria has been battling multiple security threats, including insurgency in the North-East and banditry in the North-West, with ambushes on military and police units becoming increasingly frequent in recent times.”
The security adviser said that armed groups now deploy guerrilla tactics, relying on speed, surprise, and superior knowledge of local terrain. He lamented that while security forces continue to operate largely within the framework of conventional warfare, the mismatch has continued to expose the troops to avoidable ambushes and casualties.
Usman appealed to the federal government to recalibrate its approach by setting up specialised, multi-agency forces trained specifically in unconventional warfare, suggesting that such units should be smaller, highly mobile, intelligence-driven, and equipped with advanced tactical skills tailored to counter these adversaries.
He believed, “With the right training and approach, they can achieve far greater impact.”
The retired military officer also stressed the need for a unified operational structure among security agencies, warning that poor coordination creates gaps that armed groups exploit, as the security forces must operate under a coordinated framework that guarantees intelligence sharing, joint planning, and synchronised execution.
He further underscored the role of local communities in strengthening intelligence gathering, calling for improved trust between civilians and security personnel.
He added that local populations possess valuable knowledge, saying that building trust will encourage cooperation and provide early warnings that can prevent attacks.
Usman also advocated increased investment in modern surveillance and reconnaissance technologies, including drones and real-time communication systems, to support intelligence-led operations, pointing out that warfare today is as much about information as it is about firepower.
He warned that without urgent reforms, the cycle of ambushes and casualties could persist, stressing the need to prioritise the safety of personnel on the frontlines, as they are risking their lives daily to defend the nation.
He explained, “It is our duty to ensure they are properly trained, equipped, and strategically deployed. The time to act is now.”
Sokoto security adviser calls for overhaul of Nigeria’s strategy against terrorists
