Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has called on the Nigerian Armed Forces to classify terrorists as criminals and enemies of the nation as part of efforts to enhance security and safeguard communities across Nigeria.
He made the call on Tuesday during a visit by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant‑General Waidi Shuaibu, to the Government House in Jos.
Mutfwang congratulated Lt‑Gen. Shuaibu on his recent appointment as Chief of Army Staff and urged the military leadership not to downplay the severity of terrorism and banditry, stressing that such threats undermine the sovereignty of the country and must be confronted decisively.
“There have been challenges, there have been times when people have asked questions about the insecurity, but I must say that your presence has afforded many communities the opportunity to sleep with their two eyes closed,” the governor said.
He added that insurgents and terrorists should be regarded as “enemies of the state who are threatening the sovereignty of our country.”
Mutfwang noted that Plateau State had experienced relative peace since he assumed office and commended the army’s role in achieving stability in local communities. He praised the General Officer Commanding the 3rd Division, Major‑General Folunsho Oyinlola, for securing peace during the recent festive period.
The governor urged the military hierarchy to maintain and deepen efforts aimed at reducing insecurity nationwide, saying visible improvements had been recorded since the current army leadership took office. “Let me first congratulate you on your appointment as COAS and to say wholeheartedly that we wish you a very successful tour of duty,” he said.
In response, Lt‑Gen. Shuaibu reaffirmed the army’s commitment to bolstering security in Plateau and beyond, offering assurances that troops would continue operations to mitigate criminal threats and protect law‑abiding citizens.
The army chief described Nigeria’s security challenges as surmountable with coordinated action among security agencies and support from state governments.
Security experts have emphasised the importance of coherent classification and prosecution of terrorists under Nigerian law, aligning with broader policy shifts. In late 2025, the Federal Government defended a counterterrorism doctrine that classifies groups operating outside state authority as terrorists, asserting that military operations would adhere to lawful standards of engagement.
The call to treat terrorists as criminals is part of an ongoing national debate on the most effective approach to tackle insecurity, including insurgency, banditry and kidnapping across multiple regions.
This discourse has involved senior government officials and military leaders, who have highlighted the need for robust strategies that blend offensive action with legal accountability.
Mutfwang’s remarks reflect concerns among political leaders about persistent security threats and the necessity for decisive responses by security forces to ensure the protection of citizens and uphold national stability.
