A Nigerian soldier has sparked widespread discussion after releasing a video in which he alleged that powerful individuals and networks are sponsoring insecurity across parts of the country to facilitate illegal mining activities and other illicit businesses.
In the video, which circulated widely on social media, the soldier, whose identity and rank were not disclosed, said he felt compelled to speak despite military regulations discouraging personnel from publicly commenting on security matters.
According to him, influential figures he described as “cabals” are exploiting Nigeria’s security challenges for personal gain. He alleged that these groups deliberately fuel violence and instability in areas where valuable mineral resources have been discovered, forcing local residents, farmers, and communities to flee.
The soldier claimed that insecurity has become a tool used to distract the public while illegal operations continue unchecked in remote locations. He argued that whenever significant mineral deposits are found in a particular area, criminal activities and violence often increase, creating an environment that allows illegal exploitation of resources.
He further alleged that the individuals behind the scheme are rarely seen in public and maintain considerable influence both within and outside the country. According to him, their connections and resources make it difficult for authorities to confront them directly.
The soldier suggested that security agencies often focus their efforts on combating terrorists and armed groups without realizing that other illegal activities may be taking place in the same regions. He maintained that addressing the root causes of insecurity would require identifying and dismantling the networks allegedly benefiting from the crisis.
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Speaking on the North-East region, the soldier claimed that the area possesses vast mineral wealth capable of contributing significantly to Nigeria’s economy if properly managed. However, he alleged that ordinary citizens have not benefited from these resources, insisting that only a select group of powerful individuals enjoys the proceeds.
The soldier also expressed concerns about his personal safety following the release of the video. He warned that powerful interests could attempt to silence him and appealed to Nigerians to pay attention should anything happen to him.
In addition, he lamented the prolonged impact of terrorism and mass abductions on affected communities, referencing the long-running cases of schoolgirls abducted from Chibok and Dapchi. He said many victims and their families continue to suffer years after the incidents attracted national and international attention.
The soldier further claimed that terrorist groups are able to sustain their operations because their alleged sponsors possess the resources to recruit and equip new members even after security forces record successes against insurgents.
As of the time of filing this report, Nigerian military authorities had not publicly responded to the allegations contained in the viral video. The claims also remain unverified, and no evidence was presented publicly to support the allegations.
The video has nevertheless generated significant reactions online, with many Nigerians calling for a thorough investigation into the issues raised by the soldier.
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