The former senate chief, Mr Ali Ndume, has urged President Bola Tinubu to consider hiring military contractors to complement the effort by the Nigerian Army to deal with insurgents in the northeast.
Ndume made the suggestion following fresh onslaught by Boko Haram in Ngoshe, Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State, resulting in the killing of six farmers and the abduction of five others, including women.
While applauding the courage and determination of the Civilian JTF, Ndume declared that they are ill-equipped to undertake the task of eliminating the insurgents.
He lamented that farmers were being forced to abandon their farms amid a looming food shortage, emphasizing that the idea of hiring military contractors is not unconventional as it has become a global practice.
“Governments across the world hire military contractors for specific engagements. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu could consider this as a short-term solution. These contractors would work with our military and the Civilian JTF, who are familiar with the terrain.
“These contractors will bring their own equipment and military hardware. In a short time, they could eliminate the Boko Haram terrorists. They could also be deployed to deal with bandits operating in the North West.
“Over time, the federal government can recruit more youths into the military, raising the numbers to at least one million. But in the interim, I believe the President should consider this option of hiring military contractors,” Ndume said.
