The Digest:
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) George Akume has asserted that many terrorists responsible for killing Nigerians are foreign nationals who infiltrated through the country's porous borders. Speaking at the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) plenary in Abuja, Akume stated that intelligence reports show many arrested attackers "don't speak English" and speak "very poor Hausa" but are fluent in French, indicating they are not Nigerian. He acknowledged extremist groups like Boko Haram originated locally but maintained current attackers in forests and rural communities, particularly in Niger State, are from outside the country. Akume cited recent US drone strikes in Sokoto as evidence of international cooperation, and disclosed President Tinubu's Turkey visit secured additional military equipment including drones. He clarified that previous attempts to reintegrate Boko Haram members into the military were resisted and halted.
Key Points:
- The claim shifts focus to border security and regional dynamics.
- It raises questions about intelligence capabilities and preventive measures.
- Nigerians seek accountability, while government points to external actors.
- This signals the complexity of insurgency beyond domestic roots.
- The timing, amid ongoing attacks, seeks to explain security challenges.
Sources: Nigerian Tribune, SGF Office
