Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa, on August 20, 2025, attributed the Nigerian military’s delayed response to banditry in northern states to poor road infrastructure.
Speaking during a security briefing in Abuja, Musa highlighted that dilapidated roads hinder troop mobility, slowing operations against bandits in regions like Zamfara and Benue. He called for urgent investments in road networks to enhance military effectiveness.
Musa noted that rugged terrain and damaged highways impede rapid deployment, allowing bandits to evade capture. He urged collaboration between federal and state governments to prioritize infrastructure, citing recent attacks that exposed logistical gaps.
The military, intensifying operations, has deployed additional resources, but Musa stressed that road repairs are critical to success. His remarks follow reports of banditry disrupting communities, prompting calls for comprehensive security reforms.
The statement has sparked discussions about Nigeria’s infrastructure deficits, with some advocating for broader modernization, while others emphasize immediate road upgrades for security. The issue, linked to past critiques of rural connectivity, tests Nigeria’s ability to address banditry holistically. As Musa pushes for solutions, the focus on roads underscores the intersection of infrastructure and security, shaping efforts to restore peace in affected regions.