At least four Pakistani nationals have been arrested by the Nigerian military for alleged involvement in terrorism-related activities.
Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, revealed this on Wednesday while briefing defence correspondents visiting the military’s operational base in Maiduguri.
He said preliminary findings indicate the foreigners were engaged in arms trafficking and the training of terrorist elements in Nigeria’s North-East.
According to Abubakar, the involvement of foreign mercenaries has strengthened terrorist groups operating in the region, making them deadlier and more tactically adept.
“The infiltration of foreign operatives into the joint operations area has heightened the threat level from groups like ISWAP and Boko Haram,” he stated. “The arrest of four Pakistani nationals, whose preliminary investigation links them to arms dealing with terrorists, is a clear indication of this growing menace.”
He added that these foreign operatives have introduced advanced methods of warfare to the insurgents, including the use of drones and sophisticated IEDs.
“They provide strategic and tactical training, which now includes drone deployment for reconnaissance and attacks, as well as the crafting of complex explosives and ambush strategies targeting our personnel,” Abubakar explained.
Calling for urgent global cooperation, he urged a joint international effort to disrupt cross-border terrorist support systems.
“This worrying development requires immediate and coordinated action — enhanced intelligence gathering, surveillance, and stronger collaboration with neighbouring countries are essential to dismantle these networks,” he said.
Abubakar emphasised that the threat posed by terrorists affects the entire nation, not just the military.
“The terrorists are not fighting only the armed forces — they are waging war against Nigeria,” he said.
He praised the commitment of Nigerian troops working under difficult conditions and urged the public to recognise their sacrifice.
“Our troops are deployed in tough terrains and endure extreme conditions, including freezing nights. They are heroes, and we must acknowledge and support them. The fight is not between terrorists and soldiers, but between terrorists and the Nigerian state. A united national front is key to victory,” Abubakar concluded.
