Nigeria is grappling with a significant increase in terrorist attacks, prompting urgent calls for advanced technology to enhance security measures. Dr. Anya Roberts, a security and counter-terrorism expert, emphasized the immediate need for the deployment of armed drones and sophisticated intelligence systems to avert further loss of life. His remarks came during an interview with ARISE News on November 2, 2023, where he highlighted the alarming trend of violence, including recent ambushes on military personnel.
Dr. Roberts stated, “The killings are one too many… today it is the ambush of a general in Damboa.” He expressed concern over the persistence of violence, noting that the Nigerian government must take more decisive action. Despite sacrifices made by the military, he argued that the government has not sufficiently addressed the escalating threat, particularly following Nigeria’s designation on the Countries of Particular Concern (CPC) list due to the high number of killings.
The expert pointed out that the nature of the threat has evolved from the notorious Boko Haram to the more technologically advanced Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). He stated, “It’s not Boko Haram; it’s ISWAP. They’re much more advanced… a civilization that came from Syria and Iraq.”
Call for Advanced Surveillance and Combat Technology
Roberts urged the Nigerian government to invest in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) capable of conducting surveillance, carrying explosives, and executing precision strikes. “This is the time to take over that space. Send unmanned aerial vehicles to take intel—know where they are, know how many they are,” he said. He further described existing drone capabilities, which can carry payloads of five to ten kilograms, as vital tools in combating terrorism.
Addressing the complexities of winning community trust in the fight against ISWAP, Roberts advised that a strategy combining military force with community engagement is essential. “You don’t just win the hearts. First, you push them back with a kinetic approach. Then you start doing quick-impact projects—build hospitals, schools, things the community lacks,” he stated. Without such initiatives, he warned, it would be challenging to draw support from local populations.
The expert acknowledged that response times remain a significant weakness in Nigeria’s military operations. He noted that while soldiers are making substantial sacrifices, the lack of advanced technology and limited ground forces hinder operational effectiveness. “Our military is really trying, but the federal government must be involved to get equipment—send drones to map the place. It’s not rocket science,” he asserted.
International Collaboration and Impacts on Regional Security
Roberts reacted positively to Senegal’s proposal for an ECOWAS-UN-AU counter-terrorism compact, stating, “That would be wonderful. If the UN decides to intervene in Nigeria, it should be collective. It shouldn’t be one nation coming because of biases.” He emphasized the need for coordinated international efforts to address the multifaceted challenges posed by terrorism in the region.
He also highlighted the importance of cross-border weapon tracking and financial intelligence, noting, “There are almost a thousand unmanned borders used for smuggling arms. How do they move ransom money out of Nigeria? How do they bring in these sophisticated weapons? Tracking must be done.”
Roberts expressed cautious optimism regarding new military strategies under the leadership of the Chief of Air Staff, who has indicated plans for increased aerial bombardments aimed at diminishing the operational capacity of terrorist groups. “From what he said, they will be strategic. I see a future where the Air Force will do enough,” he concluded.
As Nigeria continues to confront these pressing security challenges, the integration of advanced technology and renewed military strategies could play a crucial role in safeguarding lives and restoring stability in the region.
