The security situation in Northern Nigeria may be approaching a turning point, as sustained military offensives are reportedly forcing terrorists and bandits into retreat and desperation, according to retired Major General Anthony Atolagbe.

Speaking during a live interview on ARISE News, the former Commander of Operation Safe Haven said the intensity of ongoing air and ground operations has significantly weakened non-state armed groups operating across the region’s forests and hideouts. He noted that the scale of bombardments has become unbearable for insurgents, compelling some of their leaders to seek dialogue.

“Terrorists are begging for peace because the bombings are getting too much,” Atolagbe said, while responding to concerns over recent attacks on soft targets.

The retired general explained that persistent aerial strikes have disrupted the operational freedom of bandits and insurgents, leaving them exposed and disoriented. He cited a recent video involving a notorious bandit leader in Zamfara State who publicly called for negotiations, describing the move as a clear sign of mounting pressure on criminal networks.

According to Atolagbe, the shift from open defiance to appeals for dialogue reflects the effectiveness of the military’s current strategy, even as isolated attacks continue to occur. He cautioned against interpreting recent incidents, including the bombing of a mosque and school abductions in parts of Borno State, as evidence of renewed strength by insurgents.

Rather, he described such attacks as “the dying kicks of a desperate enemy,” insisting that broader violence indicators suggest a gradual decline. Drawing from casualty figures earlier in the year, Atolagbe maintained that overall insecurity trends are moving downward, despite painful setbacks.

Looking ahead, the retired general stressed that sustaining the gains recorded so far would require a major expansion of security personnel. He urged the Federal Government to recruit more soldiers and forest guards to secure reclaimed territories and prevent insurgents from regrouping.

He warned that without adequate manpower to hold liberated areas, terrorists could exploit security gaps and return to abandoned spaces. According to him, flooding frontline zones with sufficient personnel remains critical to consolidating military successes and restoring lasting peace across affected regions.