Esther Salifu
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has underscored the vital role of media collaboration in confronting Nigeria’s multifaceted security threats, emphasizing that a strategic partnership with the press is essential to national peace and stability.
General Musa stated this during an open dialogue between the Nigerian Armed Forces and media executives security chiefs, ministers and public figures, at the Defence Headquarters, Abuja.
He said: “We are not only engaged in physical combat but also fighting a war for the hearts and minds of the people. In this non-kinetic theatre, the media is a powerful force.”
The CDS highlighted the evolving threats facing Nigeria including terrorism, banditry, insurgency and organised crime and stressed the military’s adoption of a Whole-of-Society approach:
“The fight against insecurity is not just for soldiers alone. It is a unified effort involving the military, government institutions, and the people.”
General Musa reiterated that over 70% of modern military operations now rely on non-kinetic strategies, including communication, intelligence, and public engagement areas where media plays an indispensable role.
“The narratives you shape as media professionals significantly influence public sentiment, national unity, and peacebuilding. That’s why we seek a professional, objective, and nation-oriented partnership with the media.”
Reflecting on the past two years since his appointment and the reshuffling of Service Chiefs, General Musa paid tribute to the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, and commended his successor, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for his leadership.
“His seamless transition has been vital in maintaining the momentum and cohesion we have built,” Musa noted.
He also expressed deep condolences over recent violent attacks in Yelwata, Benue State, and elsewhere.
“These senseless acts of violence weigh heavily on our hearts. We remain fully committed to ensuring justice and restoring peace,” he said.
General Musa further appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his “unwavering and unprecedented” support for the Armed Forces under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Let me encourage us all not to despair. We are determined to make insecurity a thing of the past. Together, we can build a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Nigeria,” he affirmed.
Also speaking, Minister of Defence, Alhaji Abubakar Badaru, lauded the armed forces for their resilience and underscored the importance of media accuracy in shaping national perception and policy.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi, echoed the call for responsible journalism, affirming that national security and freedom of the press must move in tandem.
The forum allowed for candid exchanges between media leaders and military top brass, marking a shift toward greater transparency and trust-building.
The event was said to be a strategic turning point in fostering civil-military-media collaboration a much-needed alliance in Nigeria’s ongoing quest for national security and unity.
