The Defence Headquarters has issued a directive for the immediate removal of all non-essential roadblocks and unauthorised checkpoints across major highways, citing rising concerns over security lapses and operational inefficiencies.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

According to Nivo News, the order was conveyed in a memo dated December 5 and signed by Brigadier General A. Rabiu on behalf of the Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa. The document warned that the growing number of unapproved checkpoints was causing unnecessary obstruction and exposing military personnel to preventable risks.

The memo stated that the Defence Headquarters had observed an “increasing proliferation of non-essential static roadblocks and checkpoints” across several routes within the Joint Operations Area. It noted that while roadway security remains vital, the uncontrolled expansion of fixed posts has begun to hinder military operations and disrupt free movement for both civilians and security operatives.

The communication also highlighted that troops stationed at these locations were becoming vulnerable, particularly along heavily travelled corridors including Abuja–Lokoja–Ajaokuta–Idah–Otukpa–Obollo Afor–Enugu; Abuja–Lokoja–Obajana–Kabba–Omuo–Ekiti–Ikole Ekiti; Abuja–Lokoja–Okene–Okpella–Auchi–Benin; Abuja–Kaduna–Kano; and Lagos–Ore–Benin–Asaba–Niger Bridge.

In the directive, commanders were instructed to immediately enforce the dismantling of all unauthorised and non-essential control points within their areas of responsibility. Only checkpoints considered operationally critical are to remain.

According to Nivo News, the military will now shift from fixed deployments to intensified mobile patrols and strengthened human intelligence gathering to maintain dominance along strategic routes. The statement further emphasized stringent adherence to approved checkpoint locations and the continued operation of only those necessary for security purposes.