TheCable

Bashir Magashi, minister of defence, says the country has experienced some degree of peace amid the current security challenges.

The military has been fighting Boko Haram insurgents in the north-east for over a decade.

The troops have also been engaging recently with bandits in the north-west and other parts of the country.

Magashi, while receiving the senate committee on defence on Tuesday, said officers have been killed in various operations, but the military has recorded some level of success.

“Nigeria has been contending with diverse internal security challenges even as it grapples with the unconventional warfare waged against her by the terrorist group, Boko Haram, and banditry in some states like Niger, Katsina, Kaduna, Sokoto and Zamfara,” he said.

“The armed forces is confronting the emerging threat of banditry in other parts of the country, especially in the north-central and the north-west

“These challenges have tasked the constructive capabilities of our armed forces with attendant losses of our gallant officers and men in the line of duty.

“The armed forces have continued to contend with the challenges of ensuring insurgents’ intermittent incursions are constantly repelled. However, we have achieved a level of tranquillity.”

Magashi said with the support of the national assembly, the ministry will consolidate on its current strides and ultimately achieve sustainable peace.

On his part, Aliyu Wamakko who led the senate committee, said he was confident that Nigeria would overcome its security challenges.