Retired Major General Ishola Williams has called on Nigeria’s armed forces to concentrate on combating insurgency rather than diverting resources to local kidnapping cases.
Speaking on Channels TV, the former Transparency International Nigeria chairman said the military’s focus should remain on threats to national stability. “Running after local kidnappers only detracts from our primary mission,” he said.
Williams also highlighted a growing disconnect between citizens and security agencies, citing allegations of collusion between some personnel and bandits. He stressed the need for accountability and renewed trust in security operations.
Advocating for state police, Williams said local governments should manage their own security to address region-specific challenges. “Other countries have both state police and specialised units for particular issues,” he noted.
The retired general urged a major overhaul of Nigeria’s security strategy. “To combat banditry and insurgency effectively, we need focus, reform, and proper resource allocation,” he concluded.
His remarks come amid worsening insecurity across the country, especially in Zamfara State, where banditry and kidnappings have surged in recent years.
