Nigeria is winning the war against terror and banditry, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said.

He said this at the opening ceremony of the News Agency of Nigeria’s first Annual International Lecture on Thursday in Abuja.

”Our target is to eliminate all the threats of Boko Haram, banditry, kidnapping for ransom, and the scourge of all forms of violent extremism. Within one year, our government has eliminated Boko Haram and bandit commanders faster than ever.

“As of the last count, over 300 Boko Haram and bandit commanders have been eliminated by our gallant troops in the North-East, North-West, and some other parts of the country,” the minister explained.

Mr Idris added, “Indeed, this quote from President Booa Tonibu has amplified the resolve and determination of this administration to address the security challenges confronting us.

“By understanding the root causes, evaluating the impact on our territorial integrity, and implementing strategic policy measures, we can effectively address the challenges posed by this crisis.

“The task ahead is daunting, but with determination, collaboration, and a united effort, I am confident that we can safeguard Nigeria’s territorial integrity and contribute to the restoration of peace and stability in the Sahel region.”

The Sahel region, he said, has experienced instability and violence over the years, which has escalated to terrorism and other insecurity issues.

“The violence in the Sahel is not an isolated issue, and no single country can tackle it alone,” he said.

According to the minister, the federal government is tackling insecurity through intelligence gathering and other grassroots measures.

Mr Idris added that understanding the root causes of insecurity can lead to effectively managing and addressing the issues of insecurity.

He also mentioned that the lecture was timely and significant because it proffers deeply into the deep crisis in the Sahel and explores the strategies available based on the country’s security architecture.

(NAN)