In the bid to end the reign of terror in the North-eastern part of the country, President Goodluck Jonathan has increased the number of troops in the region from 15,000 to 20,000.
Coordinating Minister for the Economy and Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who disclosed this in a lecture delivered at a forum in London, also confirmed that Boko Haram had killed more than 170 teachers in Borno State this year.
The text of the lecture was made available to our correspondent in Abuja on Friday.
The minister also disclosed that the nation lost more than 100,000 barrels daily to international oil thieves working in alliance with criminal elements in Nigeria.
She said, “First on security, our military men and women are confronting an unprecedented challenge with courage and bravery. The president recently increased the number of troops that are in the North East from 15,000 to 20,000.
“Regional cooperation on security has got better following a decision by neighbouring countries Chad, Cameroon, Benin, and Niger, to each contribute a battalion of soldiers, to fight Boko Haram alongside Nigeria.
“President Goodluck Jonathan has accepted offers from the international community for more surveillance, aircraft cover, and equipment that enhances our ability to locate, fight and root out insurgents.
“These efforts are beginning to make a difference and the tide is now turning. Not too long ago, the leader of the Boko Haram cell thought to have masterminded the kidnap of the Chibok girls was arrested.” Click to signup for FREE news updates, latest information and hottest gists everyday
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