The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, declared that the fighting strength of terrorist organizations, bandits, and various criminal groups throughout Nigeria has been considerably weakened. He made this statement on Monday at the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Annual Conference 2025, which was held at Nebo Hall, Abalti Barracks in Lagos State. Musa credited this progress to the courage of the soldiers, better operational strategies, and the efficient execution of combined, coordinated operations involving multiple agencies. He stressed that no single military branch, agency, or person can handle current security threats alone, asserting that continuous success relies on unified effort, shared intelligence, joint activities, careful planning, and close cooperation among all security bodies. Musa also highlighted the necessity of balancing successful operations with attention to the human aspect of military life. He described the conference as an essential strategic meeting for the Nigerian Army to evaluate its operational stance, measure its preparedness and competence, and align future plans with the nation’s security goals. The minister noted the critical nature of the conference given the complicated and changing security situation the nation faces, including ongoing threats like terrorism, rebellion, banditry, international crime, and other irregular challenges that demand focused strategy, flexible leadership, and a clear mission. Highlighting security’s core importance to the government, Musa pointed out that maintaining national peace and stability is a crucial part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He pledged that the Ministry of Defence will continue offering strategic guidance, policy support, and development of capabilities to ensure the Nigerian Armed Forces remain professional, quick to respond, and prepared for the future. The minister also honored wounded personnel and their families, recognizing their physical, emotional, and mental sacrifices, and confirmed that their welfare, medical treatment, and sustained support are a primary focus for the Ministry. Praising COAS Lieutenant-General Waidi Shaibu for his broad operational experience, especially in the North-East region, Musa urged for constant innovation and forward-looking strategies to tackle new security dangers, concluding that the military must keep adapting, staying innovative, proactive, and determined in its mission to protect Nigeria.
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