Promoting terrorist propaganda online undermines national security efforts– Army Commander
Godwin Mutkut, a major general and commander of the infantry corps of the Nigerian Army, says persistent attacks on the military and the promotion of terrorist propaganda on social media could undermine national security efforts.
Mutkut spoke while addressing defence correspondents in Kaduna.
The senior military officer has urged Nigerians to stop glorifying terrorists and instead support troops in the fight against insecurity.
Mutkut said members of the armed forces of Nigeria continue to make significant sacrifices in defence of the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, often at great personal cost.
He noted that infantry soldiers bear the brunt of combat operations because they are usually the troops that confront terrorists directly on the battlefield.
“We are the main force that sees the enemy eyeball to eyeball. When people talk about casualties, most times they are referring to infantry soldiers because they are at the forefront of combat operations,” Mutkut said, according to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication.
“However, every soldier in the Nigerian Army contributes to the fight. Whether in communications, artillery, armour, intelligence, logistics or any other corps, everyone wears the same uniform and remains a combatant in defence of the nation.
“The message I have for Nigerians is simple: support your soldiers. Assist them in this fight. We cannot win this battle through military action alone; we need the support, understanding and cooperation of citizens.”
Mutkut noted that the army was structured into various specialised corps to enhance operational effectiveness, but stressed that all personnel remained united by a common mission of protecting Nigeria and its citizens.
Reflecting on the country’s prolonged security challenges, the infantry commander said that the fight against terrorism had been difficult and costly, but troops have remained determined and committed to restoring peace.
According to him, behind every fallen soldier is a grieving family, shattered dreams and a life dedicated to national service.
“Anyone who has visited the military cemetery in Maiduguri will understand the magnitude of sacrifice being made by our soldiers,” he said
“Many of our personnel have paid the supreme price. Others have sustained life-changing injuries, while many continue to battle psychological and emotional trauma resulting from years of combat operations.
“Yet despite all these challenges, our troops remain committed to defending Nigeria.”
The infantry commander also drew attention to the social and family sacrifices endured by military personnel, noting that many soldiers spend extended periods away from their loved ones while serving in operational areas.
Mutkut also dismissed claims by critics that the armed forces of Nigeria was influenced by ethnic, religious or sectional considerations.
He described such narratives as false and misleading and that the military remained one of the country’s strongest symbols of unity and national integration.
