Defence Chief Appeals to Nigerians for Support in Combating Insecurity

General Christopher Musa, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, has urged citizens to stand in solidarity with the Nigerian Armed Forces in the ongoing mission to eliminate insurgents and violent elements threatening national peace.

Speaking at the inaugural edition of the Voice of Nigeria (VON) Forum held in Abuja on Tuesday, General Musa highlighted the critical role of public cooperation. He stressed that national security thrives on mutual trust, active civic engagement, and the propagation of responsible narratives. These, he noted, are essential for curbing the spread of insecurity across the nation.

According to the Defence Chief, insurgency gains strength when citizens unknowingly or otherwise give room, support, or exposure to actors opposed to Nigeria’s unity and stability.

In the same vein, Zakari Mijinyawa, Director of Legal Services at the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), speaking on behalf of NSA Nuhu Ribadu, stated that the responsibility of national security does not rest solely on military or intelligence agencies. He emphasized that maintaining security is a shared duty that demands the cooperation of all citizens.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, acknowledged the courage and sacrifices of the Armed Forces. He also spotlighted the media’s influence in shaping public opinion, calling on journalists to highlight the positive strides of the military rather than excessively report on terrorist actions.

The forum—jointly hosted by Voice of Nigeria and the Ministry of Information and National Orientation—served as a platform for dialogue among security agencies, media professionals, civil society actors, and the general public.

As reported by LMSINT MEDIA, the event emphasized the importance of unity, public trust, and collective responsibility in forging a safer and more secure Nigeria.

It is important to recall that for over ten years, the North-East region of Nigeria has endured devastating attacks from relentless terrorist groups. Thousands have lost their lives, many more have been wounded, kidnapped, or displaced. A recent tragic incident occurred in June when suicide bombers claimed the lives of at least 32 individuals, leaving scores injured.