'We've started process to end Boko Haram' - President says

dimeji akinloye

June 3, 2015 11:58 PM

He said that his five-hour meeting heads of Nigeria's Armed Forces shows that ongoing operations against Boko Haram is yielding better results.

President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday, June 3, in Niamey, Niger Republic, expressed confidence in the ability of the Nigerian military to overcome and eradicate Boko Haram.

Speaking at an interactive with newsmen after talks with President Issoufou Mahamadou of Niger, Buhari declared that the Nigerian Army, which has earned a good reputation across the world, remains a virile fighting force.

“I am four days in office today and we have already started the process of ending the insurgency," the president said.

He said that in the course of the over five hours meeting he held with heads of Nigeria's Armed Forces and Security Agencies on Wednesday, ongoing operations against Boko Haram are reviewed for better results.

Buhari said that because of the peculiarities of terrorism, the movement of terrorists across borders and the unconventional nature of the war against terror, Nigeria will continue to seek the support of neighbouring countries in its bid to overcome Boko Haram.

The president said that his visit to Niger is to seek more supports from the country in bringing a quick end to the atrocities of Boko Haram.

He said he will hold similar meetings on security and the war against terrorism with the Chadian authorities after leaving Niamey on Thursday, June 4.

"Permit me also to acknowledge the consistency with which the government and people of Niger Republic have stood beside Nigeria under all circumstances.

"I will like to convey the appreciation of Nigeria for the sacrifices by Niger in the ongoing efforts to counter the menace of the Boko Haram insurgency.

"Niger Republic has over the years proved to be a reliable ally to Nigeria both at bilateral and multilateral levels.

"It is our hope and aspiration that this special relationship will be further consolidated during my administration.’’

According to Buhari, his administration will bring new impetus and a renewed commitment to the efforts to wipe out the menace of the Boko Haram insurgents.

He added that as a first step, "we have directed the relocation of the command post of the counter-insurgency operations to Maiduguri until such a time that the insurgency is completely defeated.’’

"Another issue of concern to us which is closely associated with the insurgency in the region is the influx of refugees and other displaced persons.

"We are aware that currently, there are over 150,000 displaced persons comprising refugees and returnees taking refuge in various parts of Niger.

"Our administration will work closely with governments of the affected States to continue to provide humanitarian assistance to the displaced persons and their host communities.

"The ultimate objective, however, remains to end the insurgency and facilitate their return to their homes," Buhari said.

dimeji akinloye