The Nigerian Army says it has arrested four Pakistani nationals allegedly involved in arms trafficking and training of Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists in the North-East.
Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, Maj. Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, who disclosed this during a media tour in Maiduguri, warned that foreign mercenaries have infiltrated the region and are fueling insurgency with sophisticated tactics and weaponry.
He said preliminary investigations revealed that the arrested Pakistanis were aiding terrorist elements with weapons and high-level tactical support.
“The infiltration of foreign mercenaries has significantly escalated the threat from terrorist groups like ISWAP and Boko Haram,” Abubakar said.
“They are not just supplying arms — they are actively training terrorists in drone deployment, IED fabrication, and ambush techniques against our troops.”
According to the commander, the involvement of foreigners has led to a spike in coordinated attacks, causing higher military casualties and equipment losses.
“What we are facing is no longer just local terrorism — this is an international operation. These groups are better equipped, more coordinated, and increasingly deadly,” he stated.
Abubakar called for urgent multinational collaboration, particularly with neighbouring countries, to dismantle the cross-border networks facilitating the movement of weapons and fighters into Nigeria.
“This is not a war against the Nigerian Army; this is a war against Nigeria. The entire nation must come to that understanding,” he said.
He lauded the resilience of frontline soldiers, many of whom operate under extreme conditions, and urged Nigerians to support and honour their sacrifices.
“Our troops are patriots. They endure heat, cold, and harsh terrain. They deserve national recognition. The media has a duty to project their heroism,” he added.
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