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ConflictsNigeria

Nigeria's security forces under-resourced amid crisis

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Azeezat Olaoluwa
November 30, 2025

Nigeria's security forces are stretched across multiple crises, including a long-running jihadist insurgency. Soldiers on the frontlines say they're fighting with little equipment, low pay and poor living conditions.

Nigerian soldiers on the frontlines face dire conditions and shortages. In exclusive footage, a soldier reveals leaking roofs, lack of food and only 60 rounds of ammunition per fighter. Troops often buy their own gear while battling Boko Haram and ISWAP in a 16-year insurgency. Despite government assurances, soldiers say promises of improved welfare remain unfulfilled.

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