Boko Haram financiers are known, says ex-COAS Buratai

Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (retd.), has said that individuals believed to be financing Boko Haram insurgents are known to relevant authorities, although their identities have not been made public for strategic reasons.

Buratai made the remarks while speaking on security challenges in Nigeria, noting that intelligence agencies have gathered information on the networks allegedly providing financial support to extremist groups operating in parts of the country.

According to him, counter-insurgency efforts involve complex operational and legal considerations, which may influence decisions on when and how sensitive information is disclosed. He added that the fight against terrorism requires sustained collaboration among security institutions, government agencies and international partners.

The former army chief emphasised the need for continued investment in intelligence gathering, modern military equipment and community-based strategies to effectively tackle insurgency and restore stability in affected regions.

His comments come amid ongoing security operations aimed at curbing attacks by armed groups, particularly in the North-East, where communities have continued to face threats from extremist violence.

Security analysts say addressing the sources of terrorist financing remains a crucial component of broader efforts to dismantle insurgent networks and prevent the escalation of conflict.