Former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai, on Monday warned that the increasing deployment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) for internal security is weakening the police and other civilian security agencies, despite providing short-term stability.
Speaking at the 2026 Armed Forces Celebrations and Remembrance Day lecture in Abuja, Buratai said the military’s widespread presence in all 36 states overstretches personnel, diverts defence budgets, and reduces preparedness for external threats.
“The extensive deployment of the Armed Forces in internal security provides immediate stability, but it perpetuates dependency that weakens civil police capacity and strains resources,” he said.
Buratai stressed that internal security should be civil-driven and intelligence-led, with the police and state intelligence services in the lead. He urged a time-bound, conditions-based strategy to gradually return these responsibilities to civilian authorities.
“Internal security roles must not replace the military’s core duty of defending Nigeria. Strong, well-equipped police and intelligence services are essential for long-term security and democratic stability,” he added.
Earlier, Defence Minister General Christopher Musa (retd) called for a coordinated effort to prevent criminal networks from exploiting local transport to move weapons, drugs, and illicit materials. He emphasized that security is a shared responsibility involving local governments, community leaders, and the public.
Musa also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a stronger, self-reliant Nigerian Armed Forces through enhanced training, welfare, doctrine, and locally manufactured defence equipment, boosting jobs and reducing dependence on foreign suppliers.
Both Buratai and Musa commended service chiefs and military personnel for their professionalism, assuring Nigerians of the military’s capacity to protect lives, assets, and national security.
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