The Nigerian military has described the rocket-making factory images released recently by the Boko Haram sect as ‘empty threats’ which will not stop the military from defeating them.

In tweets on its twitter handle on Tuesday night, Defence Headquarters said the images were released to create apprehension and panic in the minds of Nigerians.

Defence Headquarters said in series of tweets: “In recent times, there were some clips about the bomb factory released by Boko Haram terrorists in order to create apprehension and panic in our innocent citizens and to prove that they are still very much alive to their unholy, barbaric and unethical conduct.

“For avoidance of doubt, this and other tactics are nothing but empty threats which will not help them from being defeated.

“This shows that the terrorists are true enemies of Nigerians therefore we must collectively condemn and stand firm to finish them.”

The military further reassured Nigerians of its commitment to winning the war on terror, saying the military is following the terrorists step by step, with a view to crushing them while avoiding human and collateral damage in line with the rules of engagement, code of conduct and standard operational procedure.

Boko Haram had released photos of what it called a rocket-making factory purportedly situated in the north-eastern region of Nigeria.

The sect had used rocket-propelled grenades in the past, and many Nigerians have been asking where the weapons have been coming from.

The photos seem to indicate that members of the sect have the technical knowledge to manufacture weapons. The pictures are believed to have been taken at a college in Borno State and were reportedly sent to the BBC Hausa Service as a Whatsapp message.

President Muhammadu Buhari, had in August asked the military to end the activities of the Boko Haram sect in the nation within three months, a period that will end by November.

It has, however, been extended to December, with the military promising that it will meed the deadline.

•Adapted from a Channels TV report. Photo shows Boko Haram rocket-making factory.