Nigeria's Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, has ordered security personnel to confront terrorists and armed bandits immediately upon deployment, stressing that hesitation in carrying out their duties would not be tolerated.

Musa issued the directive on Wednesday in Sokoto State during the inauguration of 62 operational vehicles and other security equipment valued at ₦27.1 billion, provided by the state government to strengthen ongoing security operations.

"Once you are deployed, do not wait for any order from anybody to shoot any bandit or any terrorist. Anybody who refuses to shoot or kill any bandit or terrorist in the name of waiting for an order, we will treat you like a bandit," he said.

The defence chief noted that the newly acquired operational assets would boost the capacity of security agencies through improved mobility, intelligence gathering and personnel protection.

He also reminded officers that the equipment must be used responsibly and urged them to remain professional by safeguarding law-abiding citizens while decisively tackling criminal elements.

He further praised Ahmed Aliyu for prioritising security, describing the investment as a significant contribution to efforts aimed at improving safety and stability across the state.

Aliyu said the procurement is part of his administration's sustained commitment to security, revealing that the state has committed more than ₦36 billion to security initiatives, including operational vehicles, military and police infrastructure, and other forms of support for security agencies.

He added that a command and control centre would soon be established to strengthen surveillance and coordination of security operations, while calling on residents to continue providing useful intelligence to security agencies.

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