The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has expressed optimism about the improving security landscape in Nigeria, particularly in the Northeast region. Speaking on Saturday in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, he appealed to Nigerians to sustain their support for the nation’s security forces to achieve lasting peace.
The CDS made these remarks at a conference jointly organised by the Kalthum Foundation for Peace, the Network of Civil Society Organisations, and the Borno State Youth Parliament. The event focused on addressing violent extremism in the Northeast, under the theme, “Countering Violent Extremism: The Role of Educational Institutions and Students.”
General Musa emphasized the importance of cooperation between civilians and security personnel, stating, “I want to appeal that we should not get tired, things are getting better. We must continue to cooperate with security forces, so that we can have total peace in Borno state and the Northeast in General.”
Highlighting the critical role of youth and students in peacebuilding, he urged them to use platforms such as social media, television, and radio to counter extremist narratives and promote messages of peace. “Let us speak through social media, TV, and radio to counter extremist narratives and promote peace,” he said.
Okay.ng reports that the CDS described the sensitisation programme as timely and essential for raising grassroots awareness. He added, “At its core, it aims to raise awareness and stimulate positive action at the grassroots, to embrace peace as a way of life, and to counter radicalisation through education, dialogue, and civic responsibility.”
General Musa also pointed out the need to clarify right from wrong in the current climate, noting that adversaries exploit societal vulnerabilities such as illiteracy, poverty, and ethnic and religious divisions.
He commended the organisers for their efforts in awakening students’ consciousness as key security stakeholders.
Earlier in the event, Ummukalthum Mohammed, CEO of the Kalthum Foundation for Peace, expressed gratitude to the CDS, his troops, and other stakeholders for their relentless fight against Boko Haram and terrorism in Nigeria.
Following the conference, General Musa visited wounded soldiers at Maimalari Military Hospital, where philanthropist Dr. Paul Odilli, who accompanied the CDS, made donations including cash, medicines, and medical equipment to support the injured troops.
