Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Buratai, has vowed not to return to Abuja from Borno state until the war against the Boko Haram sect is completed.
General Buratai last week relocated fully to the North East region to oversee and direct the overall operations in the theatre and other Nigerian Army operations across the country.
Speaking to troops at Ngamdu Special Super Camp on Monday April 13, during the Easter celebration, the Army Chief regretted that the insurgency has lasted for too long but gave assurances that in no time the Boko Haram elements will be defeated.
“You may wonder that this counter-insurgency operation has lingered for too long, we all know globally that counter terrorism is very complex. There are some countries that have fought counter terrorism for close to 50years. But we’re not going to leave it, we will not leave this camp
We are here, we will not leave this camp until we substantially degrade these criminals. By God’s willing, we shall be there with you no going back once we commence. We will be with you in the valleys, on the hill, in the jungle, in the river and so on. As I speak now, we have some element that are providing us necessary intelligence and once we start, no going back. We are here and we make sure that we get ourselves properly motivated, properly equipped and I assure you will have the best of time.
Some of you have been here before like two three times but I tell you, we are going to have the best of time. We want the best out of you. We need your courage and determination. I want you to have at the back of your minds that Mr. President solidly behind you. We have already started getting the consignment of what we require for us to handle these insurgency and terrorism. It a matter of time and a very short time.
General Buratai added;
If I ask you a question, will you answer me? The question is, is anybody ready to chicken out?”
And a thunderous NO rented the air from the soldiers.
