“Terrorists Have Outgunned Our Troops” — Ali Ndume Raises Alarm Over Northeast Security

Senator Ali Ndume has warned that Nigerian troops fighting Boko Haram in the Northeast are being overpowered due to inadequate weapons and equipment, following recent clashes in Borno State.

Ndume, who represents Borno South Senatorial District, said soldiers in Ngoshe were forced into a tactical withdrawal during an insurgent attack because they lacked sufficient ammunition and protective equipment, including Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles (MRAPs) and gun trucks. He said the troops later regrouped and retook the area, but not without casualties.

“If they were adequately equipped, they would not have been dislodged,” he said, adding that the soldiers remain capable but are constrained by limited resources.

The senator reiterated his warning that parts of Borno State and the wider Northeast remain at risk if military support is not significantly improved. He said while he shares intelligence with security agencies, operational effectiveness continues to be weakened by shortages in arms and logistics.

Ndume acknowledged steps taken by Bola Tinubu to address insecurity, including increased recruitment into the armed forces and police, as well as new security initiatives. However, he said these efforts fall short without adequate equipment, training, and welfare for personnel.

“The initiatives are commendable, but without proper tools and motivation, the objective cannot be achieved,” he said.

He described difficult conditions faced by troops in frontline communities, including makeshift shelters and limited supplies. He also pointed to the humanitarian impact, noting that communities such as Gwoza have been largely destroyed, with displaced residents sheltering in nearby towns.

Despite the situation, Ndume said many residents are willing to return home if security improves and reconstruction begins.

He added that while troop morale remains relatively strong, it is being affected by the lack of adequate support, including insufficient weapons, limited mobility, and poor welfare conditions. According to him, better resourcing would significantly improve outcomes in the fight against insurgency.

Ndume called for a comprehensive approach focused on training, equipment, ammunition, and motivation, alongside stronger air support such as deployment of attack helicopters to conflict areas.

He also said the Borno State government has committed significant resources to support security operations but lacks the capacity to sustain the burden, urging greater federal intervention.

Ndume concluded that a coordinated and properly resourced response remains essential to stabilising the Northeast and enabling displaced communities to return home.