Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has criticized Nigeria’s prolonged battle against Boko Haram, claiming the 15-year insurgency has become “an industry” sustained by beneficiaries both inside and outside government.

Speaking during the Toyin Falola Interviews, Obasanjo highlighted that despite massive spending on defence and counter-terror operations, Nigeria has yet to defeat the terror network, which has now lasted longer than the 30-month Nigerian Civil War.

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Key Points from Obasanjo’s Remarks

• Conventional military methods are insufficient: The military is trained for traditional warfare, while insurgents often hide among civilians or flee targets, requiring specialized training, intelligence, technology, and equipment.
• Collaboration failures: Obasanjo warned that foreign partners distrust Nigerian security agencies due to leaks, infiltration, and compromised officers, hindering effective counterterrorism efforts.
• Missed opportunities for negotiation: In 2011, Boko Haram initially rejected talks but later agreed to a 21-day ceasefire, which the government failed to utilize.
• Global lessons: Obasanjo suggested learning from Colombia’s counterinsurgency approach as a model for Nigeria.
• Industry of insecurity: He alleged internal sabotage and collusion within the security apparatus, contributing to the persistence of insurgency.

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Impact on Nigeria

Despite trillions of naira spent since 2009, banditry, abductions, and terror attacks continue in the North-West and North-East, leaving rural communities vulnerable to ransom-driven violence.

Obasanjo stressed that effective counterinsurgency requires a precise combination of training, intelligence, technology, and specialized equipment, rather than relying solely on conventional military force.