Report by Bello Wakili; Editing by Basirat Memudu
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Christopher Musa has assured Nigerians that the country’s armed forces are working hard to improve the security situation across the nation.
He gave the assurance at the state House Abuja after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu, where they discussed the current state of insecurity and the way forward.
Christopher Musa explained that the meeting was aimed at reviewing the overall security situation in the country.
According to him, President Tinubu is deeply concerned about the recent attacks in some states, and has given clear instructions to security agencies on how to respond.
“We want Nigerians to know that we are on top of our game. We are working very hard and the President has shown strong support by approving new equipment and air assets for the armed forces,” the CDS said.
He explained that recent terrorist activities are linked to a broader movement of jihadists across the Sahel region because Nigeria shares long and porous borders with neighbouring countries, the country has also been affected.
To tackle this, he said the military is working more closely with security forces in neighbouring countries to stop the spread of terrorism across borders, all military operations across the country have also been strengthened to respond better to threats.
The CDS who added that security is not only about military force said non-violent efforts, such as improving the lives of people in affected communities, are just as important.
The President, he said, is working with other levels of government to ensure communities benefit from development and democracy.
He pointed out that the National Security Adviser (NSA), the Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS), the police, and all branches of the armed forces are working together as one team to restore peace.
The CDS who also warned Nigerians against fake news said many of the videos shared on social media are either old or from other countries, but are being made to look like recent attacks in Nigeria.
He urged Nigerians to report suspicious activity, including the misconduct of any security personnel.
Speaking on the recent attacks in Plateau, Benue, and other states, the CDS said security chiefs have been visiting affected areas and working closely with state governors.
He noted that he had just returned from Maiduguri and that the military is fully engaged in all troubled zones.
“We cannot do this alone, the federal government is doing a lot, but we also need support from state governments, local governments, and communities. Everyone has a role to play,” he said.
Christopher Musa thanked Nigerians for their support and promised that the armed forces will continue to do their best to secure the country.
“We will not give up. We will continue to succeed, and we ask all Nigerians to remain hopeful and alert,” he concluded.