Why Boko Haram, ISWAP strike more during Ramadan – Defence Minister

Nigeria’s Defence Minister has revealed why Boko Haram and other terrorist groups often intensify attacks during the Islamic fasting month of Ramadan.

Speaking after a closed-door security meeting with Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday, the Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, said extremist fighters believe dying in battle during Ramadan guarantees them entry into heaven.

According to him, the belief drives the insurgents to carry out more violent operations during the period.

“As usual with the terrorists during Ramadan period, for them, they feel when they die, they are going to heaven. So they are ready to commit any offence or to get killed because they feel they have reward to do,” Musa said.

He, however, assured Nigerians that security forces had adjusted their strategies to counter the heightened threat.

The Defence Chief said the military had recently recorded significant operational successes against insurgents, including eliminating key commanders and reclaiming some of their operational bases.

“You can see in the past few days, we’ve taken over those locations, we’ve killed their commanders, we’ve taken over their assets. We will continue to do more,” he added.

Musa also disclosed that the president had approved additional measures aimed at strengthening the fight against insurgency.

“We’re here to assure Nigerians and to assure Mr. President that we’re on track and we will succeed,” he said.

The meeting brought together top security chiefs amid growing concern over renewed attacks in parts of Nigeria’s North-East, where the jihadist group Boko Haram has continued to launch assaults on communities and security formations.