BREAKING: FG Plans Gradual Withdrawal of Soldiers From Internal Security Operations as Police Prepare to Take Over

The Federal Government has announced plans to gradually withdraw military personnel from internal security operations across Nigeria, as part of efforts to strengthen the Nigeria Police Force and allow soldiers to focus on their primary military responsibilities.

The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), disclosed this development on Thursday, November 5, 2026, during the APC Abuja Roundtable in Abuja.

According to reports, the minister explained that the prolonged deployment of military personnel across different parts of the country had placed considerable pressure on soldiers, with some spending extended periods away from their families.

He noted that although the military has continued to support the police in tackling insecurity, the responsibility of maintaining internal law and order should increasingly fall on the police.

Musa reportedly said the military would gradually begin withdrawing from some internal security assignments to allow personnel to return to their barracks and have time to rest.

Military Personnel Have Been Overstretched

For several years, Nigerian soldiers have been deployed across different states to support security operations against banditry, kidnapping, insurgency, communal violence and other criminal activities.

Military personnel have also been involved in maintaining security at checkpoints, highways and vulnerable communities.

However, the Defence Minister acknowledged the pressure associated with the military's prolonged involvement in internal security operations.

He explained that the military would continue supporting the police whenever security challenges exceed their operational capabilities.

Police Expected to Take Greater Responsibility

The proposed gradual withdrawal places greater responsibility on the Nigeria Police Force to strengthen its operational capacity and take the lead in maintaining internal security.

The development also raises questions about police manpower, equipment, training, intelligence gathering and welfare.

Many Nigerians will be watching to see how the police respond to security challenges, particularly in areas affected by banditry, kidnapping and communal violence.

Will the Military Completely Withdraw?

The announcement does not mean that the Nigerian military will immediately withdraw from every internal security operation.

Rather, the plan involves a gradual reduction of military involvement as the police build the capacity to handle more security responsibilities.

The military is still expected to provide support when necessary, particularly in situations that exceed the capabilities of the police.

Nigerians React as Security Responsibilities May Shift

The announcement has generated important questions about the country's security arrangements.

While the proposed move could give soldiers more time to concentrate on their traditional military duties, concerns remain about whether the police have sufficient resources to handle the country's security challenges independently.

For communities that have relied on military deployments for protection, the transition will be particularly important.

The success of the plan will depend largely on how effectively the Federal Government strengthens the police before reducing military involvement.< /p>

What do you think? Is the Nigeria Police Force adequately prepared to take greater responsibility for internal security while soldiers gradually return to their barracks? Share your thoughts in the comment section.</p>

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