Kehinde Fajobi
Retired military veteran Col. Nasiru Salami has expressed concern over the inadequate weapons used by Nigerian security forces to combat the terror group Lakurawa, which has been causing chaos in the North-West.
Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Wednesday, Salami drew attention to the stark contrast between the outdated weaponry of Nigerian forces and the advanced arms used by insurgents.
“Somebody called me from Maiduguri yesterday and said this Lakurawa, they have divided themselves into two, attacking from different sides,” he said.
Salami revealed that Nigerian security agents are equipped with old rifles, such as the GT3, which have limited range and effectiveness.
“Now, our men are using useless rifles that cannot go beyond a quarter of a mile but these people when they shoot from a far distance, they will aim and get the target,” he stated.
The 76-year-old veteran urged the Federal Government to equip security forces with modern assault rifles that could match or exceed those used by the insurgents.
He argued that providing better equipment and motivating troops would help reduce the high casualty rates among Nigerian forces.
Salami also reflected on his military service, sharing his experience of joining the Nigerian Army in October 1967 and being sent to the frontlines of the Biafra War after just six weeks of training.
He served for 11 months during the war and sustained severe injuries, including the amputation of his right foot.
Despite this, Salami returned to battle, continuing to serve his country with dedication.