‘Military needs modern weapons and training’ – IBB says

Former military President, Gen.Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, says the Federal Government must equip the military with modern arms and training to effectively deal with the rising rate of terror and insecurity across the country

The Former military head of state, who spoke in an interview with BBC Hausa Service in Kaduna on Sunday, said  it has become imperative for citizens to support government and soldiers in order to bring an end to the crisis but not without adequately equipping the military with modern weapons and training.

“They need to be trained on how to use the modern weapons, not to get weapons and just hand over to them. They should be trained.”He noted

Commenting on reaching out to the present administration with advise, he said  “ We give advice as we can..but we don’t make noise about it. We don’t announce that this is what we say. “We should unite. We should support those in power; we are all working towards achieving the same goal. Between the leaders and citizens, we need peace and a harmonious relationship.

“This problem of insecurity, every government had its experience… but if we unite…I remember how we fought the civil war for three years, the people supported the government, the government did its best, bought what was necessary.

“Those who fought were made to understand that this country is the best for them. It’s not only in Nigeria, many countries encountered this kind of problem. Some had it for ten years but through concerted efforts, they are out of it.  I believe we can get out of this problem. “Both citizens and those governing are trying, but we should know that it is not an easy task.” he concluded.