Why People Join Terrorist Groups, Says Nigeria's Defence Minister Musa

The Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, identified two primary motivations for individuals joining terrorist organisations.

Musa explained that recruits are often misled into believing they are fighting for a divine cause, and that others are drawn by economic desperation, seeing the groups as a source of financial gain.

He made these remarks while answering questions during an interview on Arise Television on Friday.

"Why do people join terrorist groups?" Musa asked. "They do so because first, they are deceived into thinking they are fighting for God," he said.

"Second, some are misled because they are poor and feel that joining is the only way to obtain money, as the groups promise them wealth," he added.

"They entice them with money and promise heaven and earthly rewards, so they join. When we treat them and provide skills, we rehabilitate them back into the community. We also monitor them closely, and so far none have reverted to criminal activity because we keep track of what they do," Musa said.

Over the years, Nigeria and other parts of Africa have faced threats from several terrorist groups, including Boko Haram, ISWAP, and JNIM.