A security analyst has criticised the Federal Government over what he described as a lack of adequate compensation and welfare support for families of soldiers killed in the line of duty, amid worsening insecurity in Nigeria’s North-East region.
Speaking during an interview with The News Chronicle in Maiduguri on Monday, the analyst, who requested anonymity for security reasons, claimed that the Federal Government has not consistently provided compensation to the families of fallen troops.
According to him, some state governments, particularly Borno State, have stepped in to offer support to ease the hardship faced by bereaved families.
The analyst expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in the North-East, attributing it to what he described as evolving tactics by Boko Haram insurgents.
He noted that the terrorist group appears to operate in a more decentralized manner, making it difficult for security agencies to effectively track and counter their activities.
“The issue of insecurity in Nigeria, particularly in the North-East, is getting out of hand,” he said. “Boko Haram fighters now operate remotely without clear communication channels, yet their attacks appear highly coordinated.”
He argued that despite these challenges, security agencies could intensify operations, especially during the rainy season when insurgents’ mobility is limited due to poor road access.
According to him, this period presents an opportunity for the military to launch more decisive offensives against the terrorist groups.
The analyst further lamented what he described as a lack of visible action from both the government and security forces, claiming that insurgents are increasingly emboldened. “We don’t see enough action. Boko Haram terrorists seem to be doing what they want in the region,” he stated.
He also criticised the Federal Government for allegedly remaining silent on issues concerning the welfare and benefits of personnel in the Nigerian Army and the Nigeria Police Force.
He stressed that security personnel continue to make significant sacrifices for the country but are not adequately supported.
“They have sacrificed their lives for the nation, but the government is not taking full responsibility,” he said. “When a soldier dies, he is quickly replaced, and the system moves on.”
Highlighting what he described as a broader institutional problem, the analyst pointed out that even in the case of high-ranking officers, the response often amounts to little more than symbolic gestures.
“If a General Commanding Officer dies today, another will immediately be appointed, and the Senate may observe a minute of silence. This is unfortunate,” he remarked.
He further linked the issue of morale within the armed forces to the current recruitment drive by the Nigerian Army, noting that the response from applicants has reportedly been low in many parts of the country, particularly in the South-East.
According to him, declining interest in military recruitment could reflect growing public concerns about welfare, safety, and long-term support for personnel.
The analyst also raised concerns about the political climate, alleging that national attention is shifting away from critical security challenges as elections approach. “Nobody seems to care enough about insecurity now. The focus is on campaigns and elections,” he said.
His comments come amid ongoing efforts by Nigerian security forces to contain insurgency in the North East, a region that has faced years of violence linked to Boko Haram and other armed groups.
Despite repeated military operations and government assurances, attacks and security breaches continue to pose serious threats to communities in the area.
Observers say the concerns raised highlight the need for a more comprehensive approach to both national security and the welfare of those tasked with protecting the country.
