Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has expressed concern over Nigeria’s past failures in curbing the rise of Boko Haram and other non-state armed groups, warning that allowing such entities to amass significant military capabilities was a grave mistake.
Mutfwang made this statement during the unveiling and testing of attack Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and locally manufactured bombs at the headquarters of Briech UAS, an indigenous drone production company in Kuje, Abuja. He emphasized the need for Nigerian leaders to ensure that no unauthorized groups operate within the country’s borders with capabilities that rival those of state forces.
The Growing Threat of Terrorism in Nigeria
For over a decade, terrorist organizations, particularly Boko Haram, have wreaked havoc in Nigeria, especially in the northeastern region. These groups have engaged in bombings, kidnappings, and guerrilla warfare, using improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and landmines to target both civilians and security forces.
Governor Mutfwang highlighted that the continued expansion of such threats underscores the urgency for stakeholders to collaborate with local technology firms specializing in defense and security solutions. He noted that reliance on foreign technology often comes with bureaucratic hurdles, making it imperative to develop homegrown defense capabilities.
Advocating for Local Security Innovations
Commending the Nigerian Armed Forces for their professionalism and commitment to national security, Mutfwang pointed to Plateau State as an example of how effective security measures can restore stability.
“As the governor of Plateau, I have witnessed firsthand the efficiency and professionalism of the Nigerian Armed Forces. Today, Plateau is gradually reclaiming its reputation as the home of peace and tourism,” he stated.
He attributed this progress to the strategic deployment of technology in combating security threats, citing Plateau’s partnership with Briech UAS as a game-changer.
“One of the key factors behind this improvement is the effective use of technology in tackling these threats. Our collaboration with Briech UAS has enabled the deployment of advanced security tools in Plateau, leading to significant progress in ground operations,” Mutfwang explained.
The Need for Strategic Defense Investments
Reflecting on Nigeria’s security challenges, the governor stressed the importance of preventing non-state actors from attaining firepower that could challenge or surpass that of government forces.
“Nigeria made a mistake by allowing non-state actors to acquire military capabilities that almost rival those of the state. It’s time to correct that mistake,” he asserted.
He called for stronger investments in indigenous security solutions, ensuring that Nigeria does not depend on foreign suppliers who might impose restrictions or delays in accessing critical defense tools.
“This initiative by Briech UAS represents a strategic and sensible acquisition of technology—one that comes without external strings attached,” Mutfwang said.
The governor’s remarks underscore a broader call for Nigeria to prioritize domestic defense innovations, strengthen its military capabilities, and prevent any further encroachment by armed non-state actors.
