Nigerians Must Unite as One Family to End Insecurity – Defence Minister Musa

Nigerians have been urged to unite and relate with one another as members of one family in order to successfully tackle the persistent security challenges confronting the nation. This call was made by the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (retd), who emphasized that collective responsibility and unity remain key to restoring peace across the country.

According to the minister, overcoming insecurity in Nigeria requires the active involvement of every citizen, regardless of ethnic, religious, or regional differences. He noted that when justice is upheld within communities, it naturally leads to stability, progress, and sustainable development.

General Musa made these remarks while speaking at the 2025 At Yap Buffet, an event organized in his honour. During his address, he reiterated that his primary responsibility as Minister of Defence is to safeguard Nigeria’s territorial integrity and ensure that citizens can go about their lawful activities without fear.

He highlighted the difficult experiences faced by several communities, particularly in Kaduna State and the North West region, where insecurity has significantly disrupted daily life and economic activities. The minister stressed that there is an urgent need to confront these challenges head-on so that Nigerians can enjoy improved living conditions and contribute meaningfully to national development.

Acknowledging past shortcomings, General Musa admitted that certain mistakes had previously been made in handling security issues. However, he assured Nigerians that deliberate efforts are now being taken to correct those errors and foster lasting peace for the benefit of everyone in society.

He further declared that the era of unchecked threats to the lives of Nigerians is gradually coming to an end. While noting that enemies of the state remain active and determined, the minister affirmed that security forces are equally resolute in ensuring such threats are completely neutralized.

The Minister of Defence expressed deep appreciation to traditional rulers, religious leaders, and ordinary citizens for their courage and persistence in standing against all forms of wrongdoing. He encouraged Nigerians to embrace forgiveness and mutual understanding, stressing that national unity is essential for the country’s growth and advancement.

Also speaking at the event, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, represented by the Deputy Governor, Hadiza Balarebe, praised General Musa’s journey to leadership. She described him as a man who attained his current position through discipline, dedication, and hard work.

She added that the people of Kaduna State have confidence in his ability to deliver on the responsibility entrusted to him by President Bola Tinubu, while offering prayers for divine wisdom to guide him in the execution of his duties.

In his remarks, the Paramount Ruler of At Yap Chiefdom, Sir Dominic Yahaya, appealed for peaceful coexistence within the chiefdom, Kaduna State, and Nigeria as a whole. He advised Nigerians to look out for one another and remain their brother’s keeper in all aspects of life, noting that unity remains the foundation for national peace and security.