Defence Chief reiterates call for National Unity in tackling insecurity

Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has emphasised the importance of national unity and collective responsibility in addressing the country’s security issues. Speaking at the inaugural edition of the 2025 VON Forum media programme, General Musa highlighted the resilience of the nation despite the many challenges it faces.

In his keynote address, the defence chief underscored the vital role the media plays in combating fake news and harmful narratives. He cautioned that misinformation and disinformation erode national unity and public trust.

“We are in a time where some people take pleasure in failure,” he stated. “They forget that when the economy suffers, it affects everyone. No one is spared.”

General Musa described the armed forces as a close-knit family bound by loyalty and sacrifice. He called on Nigerians to rally behind their military, stressing that unity is key in defeating internal and external threats.

“When we support our military, we frustrate the efforts of those who wish to see Nigeria divided. Our collective strength is our greatest weapon.”

Acknowledging the complex security situation in the country, General Musa noted that community involvement is essential to securing lasting peace.

“Terrorism thrives in silence,” he said. “We need to ask the difficult questions: Who supplies them? Who harbours them? Do we want to become strangers in our own land?”

He commended the VON Forum for providing a platform that bridges the gap between leaders and the public, especially at a time when truth is often buried under misinformation. “Some actors want to see Nigeria collapse, but we must not give them that satisfaction,” he asserted.

General Musa paid tribute to the sacrifices of military personnel, especially those who have been wounded or lost their lives in service to the nation.

“These are our heroes,” he said. “Their sacrifices have helped preserve the democracy we enjoy today. It is our duty to honour and support them.”

He addressed public concerns about misconduct within the ranks, clarifying that while soldiers come from everyday society, there are internal systems in place to identify and discipline bad actors.

“No one joins the military as a saint, but we have processes to refine and correct wrong behaviours.”

Reflecting on the country’s current state, General Musa posed a sobering question: “How did we get here, and why did the world watch it happen? We must take ownership of our future.”

He concluded with a strong message of hope and responsibility, urging Nigerians to take pride in their country and work collectively for its progress.

“Every nation faces security issues, but others are safeguarding their borders, their people, and their values. We must do the same. It’s time to control our own narrative. Nigeria will not fail.”

He reminded all that the nation’s vast resources mean little without unity and collaboration. “No outsider will come to fix Nigeria for us. If the military fails, the nation is at risk—but Nigeria will not fail.”