CSOs seek investment in intelligence, welfare to consolidate military operation gains

A coalition of Nigerian civil society organisations, CSOs, has called for improved investment in intelligence and personnel welfare in order to consolidate recent gains recorded in military operations against insurgents in the country.

The Civil Society Organisations on Peace and Security made the call in a quarterly independent report released on Tuesday. The civic groups, led by Convener Patriot Tobias Ogbe, commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for successes recorded in sustained operations against security threats across the country.

The report highlighted progress recorded by the Nigerian military particularly in enhancing inter-service coordination, intelligence-driven operations and joint military efforts that have disrupted terrorist networks, banditry, and other criminal activities.

The CSOs noted that since October 2025, the Defence Headquarters has prioritised synchronised actions among the Army, Navy, Air Force and other agencies, leading to measurable reductions in large-scale territorial control by insurgents and the dismantling of bandit enclaves in the North-West.

They emphasised that the successes recorded stem from the dedication and sacrifices of Nigerian troops operating in challenging environments.

According to the report, operations in the North-East have restored stability in several communities, enabling the return of displaced persons and the revival of economic activities, while efforts in the South-South have curbed oil theft and maritime threats, contributing to economic stabilization.

The report further observed that despite the security environment involving Boko Haram, ISWAP, banditry, kidnapping-for-ransom, and communal conflicts, the Armed Forces have adapted effectively by shifting focus to guerrilla tactics employed by terrorists and sophisticated criminal networks.

The report observed that while threats have become more geographically dispersed, sustained military pressure has limited the operational freedom of insurgent groups, particularly through air-ground coordination in difficult terrains.

However, the CSOs also noted that porous borders, geographic diversity, and resource constraints remain key challenges.

The report acknowledged that modernization efforts incorporating drones, cyber capabilities and enhanced surveillance have strengthened the military’s adaptability towards addressing the challenges.

It highlighted disrupted supply chains, reduced mass kidnappings in certain areas, and improved civilian confidence in affected regions, as evidence of recent gains recorded in the military operations.

The also detailed positive civilian and economic impacts, including the reopening of transportation routes, resumption of farming activities, and reduced incidents of pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta.

It noted that these outcomes underscore the link between security and economic recovery, with communities experiencing gradual stabilization after years of fear and displacement

“Bandits have been sacked from many territories and forced into bushes and forests. The military has dismantled their confidence in operating from fixed settlements.

“We urge greater investment in intelligence capabilities, border security, and personnel welfare to consolidate these gains. The sacrifices of our troops deserve sustained funding and national support for long-term success.

“We strongly commend the Nigerian Armed Forces and General Olufemi Oluyede for their strategic leadership in joint coordination. The impressive successes recorded are a direct product of the sacrifices by our gallant troops who continue to put their lives on the line for national security.

“The ultimate purpose of these operations goes beyond neutralizing threats to protecting human lives, livelihoods, and public confidence in the state. We have seen tangible benefits in several North-East and North-West communities.

“Civil society acknowledges the necessity of these military efforts while advocating for transparency, accountability, and stronger civil-military engagement to build lasting peace. This report adopts a balanced approach, recognising real progress without ignoring remaining challenges.

The coalition of 200 CSOs stands united in applauding the renewed emphasis on intelligence integration and operational effectiveness that has changed the security landscape for the better.”