TheCable

Lucky Irabor, chief of defence staff, says the military is winning the war against insurgency in the north-eastern part of the country.

Irabor, who spoke on Tuesday at the Nigeria Navy Ship (NNS) Delta base in Warri, said the massive surrender of insurgents is an indication of the success of the military.

The army had recently said at least 17,000 insurgents have so far surrendered to troops.

Speaking on the development, the CDS said insurgency would soon become a thing of the past in the country.

“I am sure you know that truly we are winning the war. You have seen reports of the massive surrender of Boko Haram terrorists among other things. So, that’s an indication that we are winning the war,” he said.

“In no distant time, we will see the totality of the end of such kind of criminality in that part of the country.”

Speaking on the purpose of the visit, Irabor said it was to enable him to see the troops as well as inspect all formations and units involved in ensuring peace and security in the Niger Delta region.

He also commended Abdulhamid Baba-Inna, commander of NNS Delta, and his officers for their diligence.

“They know what is right and they are able to take proactive actions against any form of criminality in this area,” he said.

“I think that it is something to be applauded and I have encouraged them to sustain the tempo.”