Retired Brigadier General Sani Usman has described a thriving “war economy” as a key factor sustaining banditry and insurgency in Nigeria, saying the high prices of everyday goods in bandit camps illustrate how conflict has become profitable for suppliers.
Speaking in an interview with Channels Television, Usman said a 33cl bottle of Coca-Cola that sells for about ₦300 in regular markets can cost as much as ₦3,000 in bandit camps.
He explained that the “centre of gravity” of banditry lies in information and weapons, noting that many perpetrators are locals with detailed knowledge of their communities. He added that kidnappings are often facilitated by local collaborators rather than outsiders.
Usman linked the problem to weak governance, economic hardship and the proliferation of weapons, arguing that some individuals are drawn into supporting criminal groups for financial gain.
Comparing the situation to the blood diamond trade in Sierra Leone, he said suppliers prioritize profits over the consequences of their actions. He added that the fight against banditry now extends beyond the battlefield to include disrupting local collaboration, logistics networks and the economic incentives that sustain armed groups.
