Government Does Not Pay Ransom, Says Defence Minister
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, has reaffirmed that the Nigerian government does not negotiate with or pay ransom to kidnappers or terrorist groups. In an interview with BBC Hausa, he stressed that ransom payments, when they occur, are typically made by private individuals, not the state.
“Government doesn’t pay ransom to rescue anyone from terrorists. It is individuals who make such payments. Whenever there is a case of kidnapping, the military always swings into action,” Musa said.
Military Response Driven by Intelligence
Musa explained that the military’s rescue operations rely on credible intelligence and rapid deployment. “In many cases, once we identify the location, our troops move into the area. The kidnappers often flee into the bush, abandoning their victims, who are then recovered,” he added.
He also warned that paying ransom encourages more criminal activity. “I do not support paying ransom because once terrorists and kidnappers realize money is guaranteed, more people will be drawn into such crimes,” he said.
Tackling Terrorism and Border Security
Addressing ongoing terrorist activity, Musa highlighted Nigeria’s vast landmass, which allows criminal groups to relocate whenever security forces intensify operations in a particular area. He stressed the need to strengthen border security, including constructing fences and monitoring entries from neighbouring countries.
“Border barriers would help block the smuggling of illegal items and prevent criminals from crossing into the country to carry out attacks and escape,” Musa said, noting that the government is committed to ensuring proper documentation of people entering Nigeria.
