The meeting, held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, came amid renewed attacks by terrorists in the northern region, including assaults on military bases that resulted in the deaths of several soldiers and senior officers.

Speaking to State House correspondents after the closed-door session, Christopher Musa, Minister of Defence, said the briefing provided the president with an updated assessment of ongoing security operations.

“The meeting was for the services to brief Mr President on the current situation on ground,” Musa stated. “You know there have been a series of attacks, and the security forces have risen to the occasion.”

The briefing followed reports that terrorists, suspected to be members of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), had intensified assaults in the North-East. Over the past week, at least three senior military officers and several soldiers were reportedly killed in attacks on more than five military formations in Borno State, Nigeria and Yobe State, Nigeria.

While the attacks caused casualties and damage, the military said many of the assaults were successfully repelled by troops.

Musa noted that part of the meeting’s purpose was to clarify what he described as inaccurate portrayals of the security situation in the media. “Sometimes the interpretation, especially through the media, has not been too direct. We felt we should put the record straight,” he said.

He praised President Tinubu for his continued support of the armed forces and other security agencies engaged in the fight against insurgency.

The defence minister urged Nigerians not to lose hope despite recent attacks. “Our appeal to Nigerians is not to get tired and not to be discouraged. Sometimes, when you hear the news, you think that is all that is happening, but it is far from that,” Musa said.

According to him, the security forces have inflicted heavy casualties on terrorists and bandits during ongoing operations. “The terrorists and bandits are taking more casualties, and their commanders are being killed,” he added.

Musa acknowledged the loss of some military personnel in the line of duty. “We have lost a number of very courageous officers and men. It is highly regrettable,” he said, but assured Nigerians that the armed forces remain committed to restoring peace and stability. “We want to assure Nigerians of our commitment to ensure that Nigeria is safe and secure.”

He further disclosed that President Tinubu had approved the acquisition of additional equipment to strengthen operations against terrorism and banditry. “Mr President has promised more equipment for us to be able to prosecute the war effectively,” Musa said.

The defence minister noted that the military has adjusted its strategies to counter emerging threats. He explained that insurgents often intensify attacks during the holy month of Ramadan, believing their actions carry spiritual rewards. However, the armed forces have responded by adapting their tactics and increasing pressure on insurgents. “In the past few days, we have taken over several locations and neutralised some of their commanders,” he said.

Musa emphasised that security agencies are collaborating closely to achieve lasting peace. “We are working together as a team, and we are confident we will succeed,” he stated.

Those present at the meeting included Nuhu Ribadu, Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu, Chief of Air Staff Sunday Aneke, Chief of Naval Staff Idi Abbas, and Chief of Defence Intelligence Emmanuel Undiandeye.

Also in attendance were the Directors-General of the National Intelligence Agency, Mohammed Mohammed, and the State Security Service, Oluwatosin Ajayi.