The Nigerian government has reiterated its stance on not negotiating with or paying ransom to kidnappers or terrorist groups. According to Defence Minister General Christopher Musa, the military’s rescue operations are driven by credible intelligence and rapid response. In an interview with BBC Hausa, Musa emphasized that paying ransom to criminal groups only exacerbates the problem, as it incentivizes more people to engage in such crimes.
Musa clarified that the government does not make payments to secure the release of abducted persons, and that any ransom payments are usually made by private individuals. The armed forces respond promptly to kidnapping incidents, often recovering victims after kidnappers flee into the bush. The minister attributed the continued activities of terrorists to Nigeria’s vast landmass, which allows them to easily relocate when security forces intensify operations in one area.
To address this challenge, Musa stressed the importance of strengthening border security, including the construction of fences, to limit the movement of terrorists into the country. The government is committed to monitoring people entering from neighboring nations to ensure proper documentation, which would help block the smuggling of illegal items and prevent criminals from crossing into the country to carry out attacks and escape.
The Nigerian government’s stance on not paying ransom is aimed at discouraging kidnappers and terrorists from demanding payment in exchange for the release of their captives. By relying on intelligence-driven rescue operations, the military aims to disrupt the activities of these groups and bring them to justice. As the country continues to grapple with the threat of terrorism and kidnapping, the government’s approach is focused on finding sustainable solutions to these security challenges. With a commitment to strengthening border security and enhancing intelligence gathering, Nigeria is working to create a safer environment for its citizens and prevent the spread of terrorist activities.
