We Will Protect Lives And Property of Nigerians -- Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari has reiterated his administration’s commitment to do everything possible to protect the lives and property of all Nigerians.

President Buhari Represented by Vice President, Yemi Osibanjo at the launch of the revised National Counter-Terrorism Strategy (NECTEST) in Abuja, Buhari said: “I have repeatedly ordered our law enforcement agents to ensure that perpetrators of violence in any shape or form are arrested and made to face the law.”

“The activities of armed herdsmen, cattle rustlers, kidnappers and criminal militants all threaten our peace and security and stability of our nation”. 
 “We will not allow anyone, under any guise, whether it is politics, culture or religion to violate the lives and property of other citizens, this is the oath to which I swore and I would uphold it at all cost.”

He noted that achieving success in combating the menace of terrorism was dependent on a well-articulated strategy and effective counter terrorism coordination with all stake holders, knowing their roles and devoid of inter-agency rivalry.

He said Nigerians must remember that to permanently win the physical battle, they must win the battle of the minds of even the most impressionable young men, who sign up to join Boko Haram and other violent extremist groups.

“We must understand that terrorism is essentially psychological war fare and as such a psychologically sophisticated and nuanced response is necessary,” he said.

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Babagana Monguno, categorized factors responsible for nurturing terrorism in Nigeria into economic, ethnic, political, religious and social reasons. He argued that containing this phenomenon required dynamic, consistent and sustained measures.