Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has appealed to citizens to rally behind the military in its efforts to dismantle insurgent networks and violent criminal groups across the country.
Musa spoke on Tuesday at the inaugural Voice of Nigeria (VON) Forum held in Abuja.
He underscored the importance of mutual trust, active civic involvement, and responsible public discourse in confronting the nation’s security challenges.
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Musa warned that extremist movements thrive when communities inadvertently enable them through silence, sympathy, or publicity.
Representing the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, the Director of Legal Services in the NSA’s office, Zakari Mijinyawa, reiterated that the burden of safeguarding the country does not rest solely on security agencies.
He called for broader national participation in maintaining peace and stability.
Also present at the event, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, acknowledged the sacrifices made by the Armed Forces.
He urged the media to strike a balance in their reportage—highlighting the military’s achievements while refraining from amplifying the actions of violent non-state actors.
The VON Forum, organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and National Orientation, seeks to provide a platform for constructive dialogue among security stakeholders, journalists, civil society groups, and the general public.
Speakers at the event agreed that strengthening national unity, promoting trust between citizens and security institutions, and fostering a shared sense of duty are vital to restoring peace across the country.
Nigeria’s North-East has endured over a decade of relentless attacks by terrorist groups.
The violence has claimed thousands of lives, displaced countless residents, and left many more injured or abducted.
The most recent atrocity occurred in June when suicide bombers killed at least 32 people and wounded dozens more.
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While the Armed Forces have made significant progress in reclaiming territory and dismantling insurgent camps, the struggle has cost the lives of many dedicated military personnel.
The porous border with Cameroon has further complicated efforts, as attackers frequently retreat across the frontier after launching deadly raids, leaving devastated communities behind.
