Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has called for a comprehensive investigation by the United Nations (UN) into how Boko Haram and other terrorist groups in the country have managed to thrive for nearly 15 years. Speaking in a recent interview General Musa expressed concerns about the continuous support and funding these groups receive from international sources.

He emphasized that only the UN possesses the necessary jurisdiction to track the flow of funds that Boko Haram has been using to acquire weapons, equipment, and logistics for almost two decades. “We have engaged with international communities to investigate the funding sources. Many of the insurgents who have surrendered – over 120,000 so far – have been found with foreign currencies. How did they obtain this money? Who is funding them? How did they receive their training and equipment?” Musa questioned.

The CDS suggested that there might be an international conspiracy behind the insurgency, raising doubts about how these groups have been able to sustain their operations for such an extended period. He urged the UN to step in and trace the global financial networks supporting these groups. “The funding is international, and we (Nigeria) lack the control to trace it,” he said.

General Musa also reflected on the challenges faced in the previous year, stating that 2024 was tough but optimistic about a more vigorous counter-insurgency effort in 2025. He reiterated his commitment to a renewed drive against Boko Haram and other terror groups while visiting front-line units of Operation Safe Haven in Kaduna and Plateau states.