Date: March 13, 2026
Reporter: Dalena Reporters
A Nigerian military strategist has sharply criticised the country’s military leadership, accusing the service chiefs and top commanders of incompetence in the ongoing war against terrorism and banditry across the country.
The strategist made the remarks while reacting to the worsening security situation in Nigeria, arguing that the current military leadership has failed to effectively confront insurgent groups despite years of operations.
Criticism of Military Leadership
According to the strategist, Nigeria’s armed forces are currently “led by incompetent leaders,” claiming that the leadership style of the service chiefs has contributed significantly to the continued success of terrorist groups operating in parts of the country.
The criticism focused on what he described as poor strategy, weak coordination, and ineffective command structures, which he believes have undermined Nigeria’s fight against insurgency.
For more than a decade, Nigeria has battled several armed groups including Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), particularly in the northeastern region of the country.
Rising Terror Attacks Intensify Debate
The comments come at a time when terrorist attacks against Nigerian troops have intensified, with militants launching coordinated assaults on military bases in the northeast.
Recent reports indicate that dozens of soldiers have been killed in raids carried out by jihadist fighters targeting military installations in states such as Borno and Yobe, highlighting the persistent security challenges facing the Nigerian military.
Security analysts say the attacks demonstrate the militants’ ability to carry out sophisticated operations, seize weapons, and temporarily overrun military positions, raising questions about Nigeria’s overall counter-terrorism strategy.
Calls for Reform in the Military
The strategist urged the Nigerian government to review the leadership structure of the armed forces and adopt new strategies to effectively defeat insurgents.
He argued that without serious reforms and stronger leadership, the country risks allowing terrorist groups to continue expanding their operations across northern Nigeria and the wider Lake Chad region.
Growing Public Frustration
The ongoing insecurity has sparked widespread frustration among Nigerians, many of whom have repeatedly called on the government to strengthen the military, improve intelligence gathering, and hold security leaders accountable.
Observers warn that the continued rise in attacks on both soldiers and civilians could further destabilise communities already suffering from years of violence and displacement.
As Nigeria continues its long and difficult battle against insurgency, the debate over the effectiveness of the country’s military leadership remains a central issue in the nation’s security discourse.