Retired Major General Anthony Atolagbe has alleged that Boko Haram and other armed groups operating in Nigeria receive substantial support from sponsors both within and outside the country.
Speaking on Prime Time on Arise Television, Atolagbe said defeating terrorism requires more than military operations, stressing that authorities must identify and prosecute those financing insurgent activities.
“There is a mega sponsorship for Boko Haram, from within and outside Nigeria,” he said, urging the government to uncover the networks funding terrorist groups and prosecute those responsible in accordance with the law.
Atolagbe also raised concerns over the communication tools allegedly used by bandits, suggesting that some Starlink satellite internet terminals may have originated from outside Nigeria.
“The Starlink these bandits use for communication might not have been procured in Nigeria. It goes beyond the Nigerian enclave; we need collaborations to find lasting solutions,” he said.
The retired general called for stronger international cooperation, arguing that the cross-border nature of terrorism and the movement of communication equipment require coordinated efforts with foreign governments and security agencies to tackle insecurity effectively.
