By Odita Sunday
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, over recent measures to strengthen Nigeria’s military, describing the expansion of the Nigerian Army and intensified operations against insurgents as major steps towards restoring national security.
The group also urged the Armed Forces to sustain intelligence-led offensives against Boko Haram and ISWAP, insisting that military pressure must continue until terrorist networks are completely dismantled.
In a statement issued on Sunday by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA commended the Nigerian Army’s swift response to credible intelligence reportedly provided by the Department of State Services (DSS), which helped forestall planned attacks by terrorists in the North-East.
According to the association, the operation underscores the growing importance of intelligence-driven counterterrorism efforts and demonstrates the military’s readiness to neutralise emerging threats before they materialise.
HURIWA also praised President Tinubu for approving what it described as a historic expansion of the Nigerian Army through the creation of four additional divisions and new brigades across strategic locations nationwide.
The association said the restructuring ranks among the most significant reforms in the Army’s history, noting that a stronger force structure would enhance command and control, improve rapid deployment capabilities, strengthen border security and boost the country’s response to evolving security challenges.
The rights group further welcomed the Federal Government’s plan, announced by the Chief of Defence Staff, to review upward the salaries and welfare packages of military personnel.
It said improved remuneration, enhanced welfare and better operational support would significantly boost the morale, professionalism and combat effectiveness of troops engaged in the fight against terrorism, banditry and other violent non-state actors.
HURIWA equally commended the appointment of General Officers Commanding for the newly established divisions, expressing confidence that the new formations would improve military presence in vulnerable areas and strengthen joint operations among the armed forces and other security agencies.
The association also praised Lieutenant General Shaibu for directing tighter security along humanitarian supply routes in Borno State, particularly the Dikwa–Gamboru Ngala corridor, where remnants of terrorist groups continue to threaten relief operations.
It described the directive as a clear demonstration of the Army’s commitment to safeguarding humanitarian workers, internally displaced persons and other vulnerable communities affected by insurgency.
While applauding the recent initiatives, HURIWA called on the military high command to sustain aggressive offensives, deepen intelligence-led operations, deploy modern surveillance technologies and continue degrading the operational capabilities of Boko Haram, ISWAP and other armed groups.
The association stressed that lasting victory against terrorism would require sustained political support, adequate funding, improved troop welfare, stronger inter-agency collaboration and continued public cooperation through the provision of timely and credible intelligence.
HURIWA reaffirmed its support for all lawful measures aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s security institutions and urged Nigerians to continue working with security agencies to enhance ongoing counterterrorism operations.
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