"Jimoh Ibrahim: True Counter-Insurgency Begins with a Deep Love for Country"

Table of Contents

1. Counter-Insurgency Efforts
2. The Role of Patriotism
3. Importance of Citizen Commitment
4. Addressing Societal Divisions
5. Civil-Military Operations
6. The Power of Public Trust
7. Strengthening National Resilience
8. Critical Tools Against Terrorism
9. A Call for Unity

Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, who represents Ondo South, stated that Nigeria’s efforts to combat insurgency will remain limited unless citizens view themselves as active participants in the battle against terrorism.

In a statement released on Friday, Ibrahim, a specialist in Modern War Studies, contended that patriotism, manifested through trust, collaboration, and collective vigilance, is a more effective tool than aggression in addressing identity-driven conflicts.

He emphasized that the fight against insurgency cannot solely rely on military forces, asserting that citizen involvement is just as vital as any tactical maneuver.

According to him, insurgents flourish in environments marked by societal divisions, and only a united populace can deprive them of the support they seek.

Ibrahim elaborated that contemporary warfare significantly depends on Civil-Military Operations that foster credibility and legitimacy within affected communities.

He noted that many communities ultimately influence whether terrorists gain sympathy or lose their grip. “You cannot win a war when the people are not emotionally aligned with the mission of that war,” he remarked.

The senator cautioned that using excessive force without engaging civilians could alienate them and provide insurgents with a ready-made narrative for recruitment and propaganda.

He added that global experiences have demonstrated that public trust often outweighs firepower in importance.

Ibrahim encouraged Nigerians to enhance their love for the nation, stating that patriotism fortifies national resilience against internal threats and foreign interference. He stressed that unity is not merely symbolic but strategic in counter-terrorism operations.

He also warned citizens against taking the country’s relative stability for granted, insisting that insecurity flourishes when people distance themselves from national security initiatives.

He identified intelligence sharing, vigilance, and community support as essential tools in the fight against terrorism.

Expressing optimism, the lawmaker stated that Nigeria can overcome its current challenges only if the government, security agencies, and citizens work together. “We shall overcome,” he declared, “but only if we act collectively and prioritize the country.”