NIPS warns against politicisation of campaign against insecurity, hails Nigerian Army
NIPS Commends Nigerian Armed Forces for Operational Successes in Fight Against Insecurity
The National Initiative for Peace and Security (NIPS) has praised the Armed Forces of Nigeria for their notable operational achievements during the first quarter of 2026. In a quarterly report released on Monday by Executive Director Dr. Adams Kings, the organization also cautioned against the politicization of military efforts by certain politicians.
NIPS reported that the Nigerian military has intensified coordinated operations across the country, leading to the neutralization of over 200 terrorists, the arrest of nearly 300 suspects, and the rescue of approximately 188 kidnapped civilians in April alone.
The report highlighted that these successes were observed across various regions, including the North-East, North-West, North-Central, South-South, and South-East. This progress is attributed to improved logistical capacity, enhanced inter-service coordination, and a strategic shift from direct confrontations to dismantling the support structures of criminal networks.
“This period marks a defining phase in Nigeria’s counter-insurgency and internal security efforts,” the report stated. “The Armed Forces have demonstrated a significant increase in operational tempo across the country. These outcomes reflect a more aggressive and coordinated approach targeting both the combat and support elements of criminal networks.”
NIPS noted that operations were executed on a nationwide scale, showcasing enhanced strategic planning and execution. In the North-East, sustained offensives have reportedly degraded insurgent strongholds, resulting in the deaths of more than 130 terrorists. The North-West also saw similar disruptions through operations aimed at bandit neutralization and civilian rescues.
The report emphasized a strategic focus on disrupting systemic support for criminal activities, including the destruction of camps, illegal arms production facilities, and logistics networks. This tactical approach aims to weaken the regenerative capacity of criminal groups in asymmetric warfare.
“Rescues of women, children, farmers, and other civilians have restored dignity to affected communities and bolstered public trust in state institutions,” the report added. It also noted that operations adhered to rules of engagement and international humanitarian standards, which is critical for maintaining legitimacy.
Nevertheless, NIPS expressed concern over the politicization of security efforts by some political actors. The organization warned that certain narratives emerging from the political sphere could undermine the morale of security forces and distort public perception of their accomplishments.
“Some elements within the political space have engaged in conduct that inadvertently strengthens the propaganda of terrorist and criminal groups,” the report stated. This includes minimizing legitimate military gains, amplifying fear without context, and framing national security challenges purely as tools for political competition.
The organization cautioned that politicizing security efforts poses serious risks, as intelligence assessments suggest these narratives may bolster confidence among criminal elements. NIPS stressed that when national security becomes entangled in political rivalry, ordinary citizens and frontline personnel are often the ones who suffer.
Despite the reported gains, NIPS acknowledged that challenges remain, as criminal groups continue to adapt to adverse conditions and exploit local grievances. The organization recommended sustained offensive operations to build on recent successes, greater investment in intelligence networks, and strengthened civil-military relations to enhance overall effectiveness.
