By Kingston Magare 18.6.2026
Retire Nigeria Army Generals have called on the Federal government to take reformative security steps and take the fight to the bandits and terror gangs that have brought the nation down on its knee.
The top ranking retired officers were speaking in press conference Thursday in Abuja against the background of the needless death of Major General Abubakar Rabe in bandits’ captivity after he was kidnapped along side his wife in Katsina State.
Brigadier General Isma’ila Abdullahi (rtd), who spoke on behalf of his colleagues, noted that the death of Major-Gen Rabe should be a wakeup call on the government to engage the terror gangs once and for all.
“Our colleague, friend, and brother, Major General Rabe Abubakar (rtd), died following his abduction by cruel bandits. His sudden death has left us shocked and deeply saddened.
“His death is not merely a headline. It underscores the difficulties facing a system struggling to guarantee the safety of citizens. Kidnapping, banditry, and terrorism have become painful realities for many Nigerians.
“No foreign nation can secure Nigeria for us. International cooperation is important, but the responsibility for protecting Nigerians lies with our institutions and leadership,” he said.
He said it was about time local youths are trained in the handling of equipment and combat technique to enable them assist security agents in the fight against criminal elements.
“When heavily armed bandits attack communities, it is unrealistic to expect local defenders to rely on outdated equipment. Communities can organise and train selected youths under proper supervision to support local security efforts.
“Creating forest guard units is only the first step. Proper training and equipment are essential if they are to contribute meaningfully to tackling insecurity in forested areas,” Abdullahi said.
Other prominent attendees included Brigadier General Abubakar Abdulqadir (rtd), Brigadier General M.I. Tsiga (rtd), Air Commodore Yusuf Anas (rtd), Ambassador Ibrahim Usman Gafai, and Ambassador Ahmed Muhammad Musawa.