Foreign Mercenaries Training Terrorists, Supplying Arms — Theatre Commander

The Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, has raised alarm over the growing involvement of foreign mercenaries in Nigeria’s insurgency war, warning that their presence is fuelling the operational capacity of terrorist groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).

Speaking to Defence Correspondents during a media tour of the theatre of operations in Maiduguri, Gen. Abubakar revealed that the foreign mercenaries are not only supplying arms but also providing strategic and tactical training to the terrorists, enabling their use of sophisticated weapons and surveillance tools like drones.

He disclosed that four Pakistani nationals were recently arrested in connection with arms trafficking to terrorist elements operating in the region.

“The infiltration of foreign mercenaries has significantly increased the threat we face. These individuals are equipping terrorists with training and tactics, including the deployment of armed drones and advanced improvised explosive devices (IEDs),” the commander said.

He noted that the improved coordination among terrorists, along with enhanced IED fabrication and ambush techniques, reflect a disturbing level of sophistication likely influenced by these mercenaries. These developments, he added, have led to increased casualties and equipment losses among Nigerian troops.

“This trend is alarming and demands urgent action. We need stronger intelligence-sharing, cross-border surveillance, and robust cooperation with neighbouring countries to cut off external support for these terror groups,” he said.

Describing the insurgency as an asymmetric war against the nation—not just the military—Gen. Abubakar called on the media to frame their coverage accordingly and highlight the sacrifices of Nigerian troops working to stabilise affected communities.

Earlier, Brig.-Gen. Mohammed Abu-Mawashi, Deputy Director of Defence Media Operations, said the media tour was initiated by the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, to provide reporters with firsthand insight into ongoing military efforts and foster greater understanding of the complexities involved in counter-insurgency operations.