Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, retired General Christopher Musa, has stressed that addressing the country’s security challenges requires a comprehensive, whole-of-society approach that goes beyond military force to include good governance, community engagement and inclusive development.
The Minister made this position known during an official visit to Akwa Ibom State, where he underscored the importance of combining kinetic and non-kinetic strategies in tackling insecurity.
According to him, “national security is not only about the use of force. It involves the collective responsibility of all citizens. When people feel a sense of belonging and are included in governance, it significantly reduces insecurity.”
Retired Gen Musa further assured that the Armed Forces remain committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure a peaceful and secure Nigeria.
The Minister also highlighted the strong link between education and national security, describing academic institutions as critical hubs for research, innovation, and ideas that drive defence strategy.
He noted that criminal elements often thrive in environments characterised by poverty, illiteracy and social exclusion, adding that communities must play an active role by remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious activities.
“Where communities reject criminal elements, they cannot survive. But where they are tolerated, they thrive. That is why we are encouraging Nigerians to see security as everybody’s business,” he said.
The Minister also commended the Akwa Ibom State Government for its investment in infrastructure and education, describing them as critical drivers of peace and stability.
He noted that peace and stability in Akwa Ibom are outcomes of inclusive leadership, stressing that when people feel valued and cared for, insecurity is significantly reduced.
Responding, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, lauded the Federal Government and the Armed Forces for their sacrifices in safeguarding the nation, particularly in addressing security challenges in parts of the North.
“We want to thank members of the Nigerian Armed Forces for the great job they are doing, despite the losses recorded. We are confident that with sustained efforts and the support of all stakeholders, insecurity will become a thing of the past,” the Governor said.
Governor Eno attributed the relative peace enjoyed in Akwa Ibom State to the strong synergy among security agencies, noting that effective collaboration has denied criminal elements the opportunity to exploit operational gaps.
“The bad elements watch out for cracks. Once they notice a lack of coordination among security agencies, they take advantage. But here, our agencies work in sync, and that has helped us maintain peace,” he added.
He further disclosed that the establishment of key military formations, including Air Force components in Eket and Oron, as well as reinforced security presence across strategic locations, has significantly strengthened security operations in the state.
“As a result, incidents such as kidnapping and pipeline vandalism have reduced to the barest minimum. However, we will continue to support the security agencies and also call for sustained federal support to further stabilise the system,” he said.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to continued collaboration between federal and state authorities, with a shared resolve to ensure lasting peace, security and development across Nigeria.
