Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called for a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s security architecture following the rescue of 360 persons abducted by terrorists in Ngoshe, Borno State.
In a statement issued on Monday, Atiku welcomed reports of the victims’ freedom after months in captivity, but argued that the successful operation underscored the need for broader reforms to address the persistent threats of terrorism and banditry across the country.
The former presidential candidate said while the rescue brought relief to the abductees and their families, Nigeria remained confronted by widespread insecurity that requires more proactive and technology-driven responses.
According to him, the country’s security framework should be restructured to prioritize intelligence gathering, technological innovation and preventive measures capable of stopping attacks before they occur.
“More importantly, I call for a rejig of our security architecture that places emphasis on intelligence, technology and preemptive actions that nip in the bud terrorist and banditry attacks before they are carried out,” he said.
Atiku also commended the military and other security agencies involved in securing the release of the Ngoshe victims, acknowledging their efforts in bringing an end to the ordeal the abductees had endured since their kidnapping in March.
He expressed confidence in the capacity of the armed forces to defeat insurgency if provided with adequate resources and effective political leadership.
“I am confident that if provided with the necessary tools and much-needed political leadership, the military will bring to an end the nearly two decades of insurgency,” he stated.
The former vice president further urged the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of nearly 100 schoolchildren and teachers reportedly abducted in Oriire, Oyo State, and Mussa, Borno State, as well as other Nigerians still being held by terrorists and bandits.
He stressed that the rescue of the Ngoshe victims should serve as renewed motivation for authorities to pursue the freedom of all citizens currently in captivity and to strengthen strategies aimed at preventing future abductions and attacks.
Atiku maintained that lasting victory against terrorism and banditry would depend not only on military operations but also on a security system built around timely intelligence, modern technology and proactive intervention.
