The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, emphasized the effectiveness of non-kinetic approaches in addressing security challenges during a one day seminar organized by the Defence Correspondent Association of Nigeria (DECAN) in Abuja.
In his keynote address, Gen. Musa highlighted the significance of employing non-kinetic strategies alongside traditional methods in combating terrorism and other threats faced by Nigeria. He stressed the importance of civil-military relations in this endeavor.
Acknowledging Nigeria’s diverse security landscape, Gen. Musa outlined the multifaceted nature of the challenges, ranging from separatism to transnational organized crime. He underscored the need for concerted efforts to tackle these threats.
Gen. Musa emphasized the evolving role of non-kinetic means in shaping Nigeria’s security paradigm, noting the military’s commitment to employing soft strategies to address complex security issues.
He highlighted specific non-kinetic activities undertaken by the Nigerian military, including Operation Safe Corridor aimed at rehabilitating former members of terrorist groups. Additionally, civil-military cooperation and engagement with affected communities are integral parts of their approach.
Addressing the seminar’s theme, Gen. Musa emphasized the importance of winning the hearts and minds of citizens, stressing the need for collective action from all sectors of society to defeat security threats.
Earlier, DECAN President Ismail Musa highlighted the event’s purpose of educating the public about the military’s soft approach to security, aiming for effective service delivery and national development.
In a goodwill message, Major General Edward Buba emphasized the necessity of a holistic approach involving government, society, media, and the military to address security challenges.
Brig-Gen Tuku Counter Terrorism Centre Rear Admiral Yaminu Musa (Rtd), represented by Commodore BM Sule, emphasized the role of media in fostering dialogue and collaboration between the military and the public, despite challenges posed by fake news and lack of interagency cooperation.
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