Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters Orders Removal of Non-Essential Roadblocks on Major Highways
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) in Nigeria has directed the immediate dismantling of unauthorized and non-essential roadblocks and checkpoints across major national highways, citing operational inefficiencies and potential risks to both civilians and security personnel.
The directive, issued in an internal memo dated December 5 and signed by Brigadier General A. Rabiu “for CDS,” noted a “growing proliferation of non-essential static roadblocks and checkpoints along several routes within the Joint Operations Area (JOA).”
While emphasizing the importance of road security operations, the communication warned that the increasing number of unapproved checkpoints has begun to “undermine operational efficiency, disrupt freedom of movement for security forces and civilians, and expose troops to unnecessary risks.” Key highways affected include Abuja–Lokoja–Ajaokuta–Idah–Otukpa–Obollo Afor–Enugu; Abuja–Lokoja–Obajana–Kabba–Omuo–Ekiti–Ikole Ekiti; Abuja–Lokoja–Okene–Okpella–Auchi–Benin; Abuja–Kaduna–Kano; and Lagos–Ore–Benin–Asaba–Niger Bridge.
The memo instructed all theatre commanders and field commands (TCS/FCs) to immediately remove non-essential static checkpoints within their jurisdictions. Commanders were further directed to maintain only approved control points and replace unnecessary posts with mobile, intelligence-led patrols.
“Commanders are to ensure strict compliance with approved control point locations, retain only those essential for operational and security purposes, and enhance route security through aggressive mobile patrols and human intelligence gathering,” the statement added.
The order comes amid rising concerns over insecurity across the country and a renewed focus on efficient and strategic deployment of security forces.
