Nigeria’s security crisis has escalated to alarming levels. Terrorism, banditry, separatist agitations, kidnappings, and other violent crimes continue to devastate communities, displacing over two million citizens and destroying homes, schools, and businesses.

In a recent chilling incident, a Brigadier-General was forced to return to his army base on foot after an ambush by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) militants in Borno State, during which two soldiers and others were killed.

This event highlights both the resilience of insurgents and the persistent vulnerabilities within Nigeria’s military operations.Amid this escalating threat, Pastor Enoch Adeboye of the Redeemed Christian Church of God has issued a moral and strategic advice, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu must give the service chiefs 90 days to decisively end terrorism, banditry, and kidnappings or resign. This directive reflects widespread public frustration after years of insecurity with little tangible progress.

It underscores the need for accountability, urgent leadership, and a unified national strategy, signaling that half-measures or political negotiations with insurgents can no longer be tolerated.

Operationally, the situation is complex. Boko Haram and ISWAP have transformed into highly adaptive insurgent groups, frequently employing ambushes, improvised explosive devices, and targeted assassinations of both military personnel and civilians. Schools, marketplaces, and homes are still being destroyed, and attacks on returning internally displaced persons have surged.

A 90-day directive would allow focused deployment of resources, measurable objectives, and a framework to ensure that leadership prioritizes citizen safety above all else.Foreign assistance is increasingly essential. Sophisticated arms, surveillance technology, and intelligence-sharing with allied nations can significantly improve operational effectiveness, reduce casualties, and increase the chances of rapid success against insurgents. Simultaneously, strict legal frameworks must prevent any support for negotiations with terrorist groups. Anyone promoting dialogue with Boko Haram or ISWAP should face prosecution, reinforcing that national security will not be compromised.

National unity is equally vital. Security is not merely a military responsibility, it requires the active collaboration of state governments, community leaders, and citizens.

A cohesive national approach, coupled with transparent execution of the 90-day directive, can restore confidence and create conditions for lasting peace. Conversely, disunity, misinformation, or politicization of operations risks prolonging violence and deepening public mistrust in government institutions.

Nigeria stands at a decisive crossroads. By implementing Pastor Adeboye’s recommended 90-day plan, President Tinubu can turn incremental military efforts into strategic victories, restore public confidence, and secure regional stability.

A well-resourced, legally reinforced, and nationally supported campaign against terrorism, banditry, and kidnappings would signal that Nigeria will no longer tolerate lawlessness.

Time is critical, this is the moment for decisive leadership, national unity, and unflinching action.