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Tag: CDS

  • CDS reaffirms military’s commitment to human security 

    CDS reaffirms military’s commitment to human security 

    • …gender advisers’ training opens

    The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has reaffirmed the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s (AFN) commitment to a people-centred, ethically grounded and professionally accountable military, stressing that modern security operations must prioritise the protection of civilians and human dignity.

    General Oluyede stated this at the opening of the Human Security and Gender Advisers Course on Monday at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Asokoro, Abuja. He was represented by the Chief of Defence Standards and Evaluation, Major General Ibrahim Lassa.

    He said Nigeria’s security environment has become increasingly complex, marked by asymmetric warfare, violent extremism, communal conflicts, transnational crimes and humanitarian emergencies that directly affect civilian populations. 

    According to him, these challenges require a shift from a purely territorial defence approach to one focused on human security.

    The Defence Chief noted that the AFN is being repositioned as a force that is not only operationally capable but also responsive to socio-cultural realities in its areas of operation, with the protection of lives, preservation of human dignity and strengthening of societal resilience now central to military effectiveness.

    General Oluyede said the course aligns with his strategic focus on strengthening AFN capacities through enhanced joint operations, improved welfare, sound administration and a reinforced operational posture, within a whole-of-government framework to safeguard Nigeria’s sovereignty and prosperity.

    He emphasised that preventive action, collaboration with civilian institutions and the protection of civilians are now integral to military success, describing human security and gender advisory roles as force multipliers that enhance legitimacy, expand operational reach and support mission sustainability.

    The CDS commended the British Defence Staff for their continued support, describing the partnership as a reflection of enduring defence cooperation between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, based on shared values and people-oriented security approaches.

    He urged participants to apply the knowledge gained to operational planning, deployments and engagement with civilian communities.

    Earlier, the Chief of Defence Civil-Military Relations, Rear Admiral Saburi Lawal, said the course was designed to strengthen professional competence across Nigeria’s security institutions. 

    He said participants were selected to serve in advisory roles within the AFN, the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.

    Rear Admiral Lawal expressed confidence that the training would improve professionalism, enhance civil-military cooperation and build public trust in security agencies, urging participants to approach the programme with dedication and professionalism.

    He added that the AFN would continue to collaborate with partners to strengthen capacity building and professional development.

  • We’ll defend democratic values, ensure peace, security – CDS

    We’ll defend democratic values, ensure peace, security – CDS

    The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has assured President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians of the Armed Forces’ commitment to defending the country’s democratic values and ensuring peace and security.

    He also assured that the Military High Command would continue to foster a highly professional Armed Forces with a collective mindset geared toward meeting its constitutional responsibilities.

    General Oluyede gave the assurance in his goodwill message on the occasion of the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day 2026.

    The CDS said the Armed Forces, in collaboration with other security institutions and civil authorities, and guided by the invaluable lessons of veterans, will navigate the various challenges to achieve lasting peace and security in the country.

    The Defence Chief paid tribute to the fallen heroes, whose sacrifices, he said, safeguard the unity and sovereignty of our great nation, noting that Remembrance Day served as a “poignant reminder of the heavy price paid for the peace and liberty we enjoy today.”

    “Their ‘today’ was given for our ‘tomorrow’, and their legacy of courage remains etched in the annals of our nation’s history forever,” he said.

    “Their devotion to duty was not a mishap but a calling to patriotism; hence, the weight of our gratitude remains unquantifiable.”

    The CDS also acknowledged the sacrifices of the families of fallen heroes, whose strength and resilience in the face of profound loss continue to inspire us. He emphasized that although the departed can never be replaced, the country would ensure that their legacies endure and that they are forever honoured by posterity.

    The Defence Chief commended the gallant soldiers and officers currently serving across various theatres of operation for their unwavering dedication to duty in strengthening the nation’s security. He said their dedication has incessantly demonstrated exceptional professionalism and loyalty to our beloved country.

    He said: “As your Chief of Defence Staff, I am immensely proud of your qualitative output and your commitment to the values of discipline and selfless service. I recognize your battle scars as a silent testament to an unwavering devotion to duty, valour, and an unyielding volition to stand firm against those who would undermine the sanctity of our nation’s freedom and flourishing democracy.            

    “I make it clear that the Armed Forces shall give no quarter, nor mortgage the cradle of our national heritage and security at any time. The boast of our great nation’s adversaries will forever remain poor, and the consequences of their hubris shall forever be disappointment. 

    “Our Armed Forces will continue to root out all threats to our national security, both local and trans-border.”

    The Defence Chief assured the personnel of the Armed Forces that their welfare remains a top priority in line with his Military Strategic Philosophy, noting that the military high command would continue to foster a highly professional Armed Forces with a collective mindset to meet its constitutional responsibilities.

    Read Also: North-West strikes: CDS, COAS task troops on sustained vigilance

    “This will be in collaboration with other security institutions and civil authorities, guided by the invaluable lessons from our veterans as we navigate the various challenges to our peace and security,” he said.

    The CDS thanked Tinubu for his “steadfast leadership, strategic guidance, and unwavering support” to the Armed Forces of Nigeria. 

    “I assure Mr President and my honoured compatriots of our enduring commitment to defending our nation’s democratic values while ensuring peace and security in our beloved nation, Nigeria,” the CDS said. 

    The Defence Chief urged to pause and reminisce on the significance of the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day to engender the promotion of national unity and reject all forms of divisive rhetoric. 

    “Our shared destiny is undeniable, and the sacrifices of our military underscore the importance of strengthening our bond as one nation, never divided,” he said. 

  • North-West strikes: CDS, COAS task troops on sustained vigilance

    North-West strikes: CDS, COAS task troops on sustained vigilance

    The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, and the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged the troops of Joint Task Force Operation FANSAN YAMMA, a military operation against terrorists in the North-West, to maintain heightened vigilance during the festive period, warning that criminal elements often attempt to exploit such periods to undermine security.

    They gave the charge when he, alongside the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, paid an operational visit to the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force to celebrate Christmas with the troops.

    Their directives came amid ongoing joint airstrikes by the Nigerian and United States militaries against terrorists in the North-West.

    According to a statement by the Nigerian Army’s spokesperson, Colonel Apollonia Anele, on Saturday, the visit of the Service Chiefs to the theatre was aimed at boosting morale, appreciating the sacrifices of the troops, and reinforcing strategic directives for ongoing operations across the North-West.

    “Remain alert, proactive and disciplined at all times, strictly adhering to the rules of engagement and respect for human rights. Do not be swayed by false narratives or propaganda,” the CDS cautioned the troops.

    General Oluyede conveyed warm Yuletide greetings and commended the troops for their courage, discipline, and unwavering commitment to duty, especially at a time when many Nigerians were celebrating with their families.

    “While many Nigerians celebrate this season with their loved ones, you remain steadfast at your duty posts. With sweat on your temples and strength in your backs, you are the wall that never breaks and the hope that can never be shattered,” the CDS said.

    He praised the operational gains recorded under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, noting that the efforts of the troops have significantly contributed to restoring public confidence and stabilising the North West geopolitical zone and adjoining states. 

    The CDS urged sustained collaboration with other security agencies, federal and state authorities, as well as continuous engagement with local communities to consolidate peace.

    He reassured the troops that their welfare remains a top priority, stressing his commitment to improving living and working conditions, healthcare delivery, and support for families of personnel.

    On his part, the COAS urged the troops to remain security-conscious and uphold the highest standards of conduct.

    He described the Christmas luncheon they had with the troops as a long-standing tradition aimed at recognising the sacrifices, resilience and professionalism of troops deployed in operational theatres.

    “It gives me a deep sense of fulfilment to celebrate Christmas with you, our gallant troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, alongside the Chief of Defence Staff. 

    “While we make merry here, similar luncheons are ongoing across other operational theatres in the country,” the COAS said.

    General Shaibu noted that the Christmas season provides an opportunity for reflection, thanksgiving and remembrance of fallen heroes whose ultimate sacrifices continue to make Nigeria safer. 

    He assured the troops that the Nigerian Army would continue to honour its fallen personnel by supporting their families and upholding their legacy.

    The COAS reiterated his Command Philosophy of Transforming the Nigerian Army into a More Professional, Adaptable, Combat-Ready and Resilient Force, with strong emphasis on personnel welfare, rewards for excellence and operational readiness.

    The COAS urged the troops to celebrate responsibly, remain security-conscious and uphold the highest standards of conduct, while conveying the appreciation of the President and the gratitude of well-meaning Nigerians for their selfless service.

    Both Service Chiefs reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to safeguarding the nation’s peace, unity and democratic stability, while wishing the troops a Merry Christmas and a peaceful and prosperous New Year 2026.

  • CDS pledges resilient, disciplined military to safeguard Nigeria’s unity

    CDS pledges resilient, disciplined military to safeguard Nigeria’s unity

    The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has assured that Nigeria will continue to hold a prominent place among nations, with its armed forces maintaining proactive resilience, discipline, and adherence to the rules of engagement in the fight against terrorism and other crimes.

    General Oluyede made the remarks during the Chief of Defence Staff and Chief of Army Staff Joint Special Christmas Lunch with troops and their families at the 26 Battalion Parade Ground, Giginya Cantonment, Sokoto. 

    Represented by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Waidi Shuaibu, he emphasized the importance of a strong, collaborative approach that fosters the troops’ commitment to professionalism and respect for human rights during operational duties.

    He highlighted that following the rule of law during operations builds trust and confidence, which are essential for Nigeria’s peace and national unity. 

    General Oluyede also commended the troops for restoring citizens’ confidence, noting that their dedication aligns with the core philosophy of the military.

    “I urge you to keep the spirit high and in synergy with other security agencies with high vigilance against criminals who especially cash on festive periods and events to explore attacks .

    “Remain strategically alert and proactive against all threats to lives and our environment “, he stressed while commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support and commitment to a peaceful and stable Nigeria.

    Also, the COAS represented by the Theatre Commander of the  Northwest OPFY, Major General Idris Warrah urged troops of the 8 Division to rededicate themselves to the ideals and discipline by upholding the spirit of security consciousness with hight standard conduct duri g operations.

    He said saluted the sacrifices of the troops and those of the nation’s fallen heroes, stressing that their efforts must not go in vain.

    “We appreciate your concerned efforts driven by professionalism , combat readiness and sound focus for service  excellence with joint and multi agency cooperation “, he noted.

    In his welcome address at the annual event the General Officer Commanding , 8 Division of the Nigerian Army , Sokoto , Major General Ibikunle Ajose said troops of the division were committed to resilient operations for the lasting peace in the country within the space of their responsibilities.

    He explained that  the troops of the division were strategic in advancing the core objects and values of loyalty , courage and selflessness hence , displaying consistency in protecting the lives of Nigerian citizens in the northwest.

    Ajose who is also the Commander , Northwest JTF Sector 2 Operation Fansan Yamma assured that the 8 Division was committed to unity and operational compliance with remarkable success through continuous operations which has impacted on lives of citizens across the states of Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto and Zamfara states to ensure locals were well secured and could play high ways without cause for alar

    This, Ajose said has enabled troops to gallantly neutralise a number of bandits and their footsoldiers in series of operations with steadfastness while appreciating and commending the strategic efforts and support of the CDS and the unwavering operational commitment and support of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Waidi Shuaibu.

    “I salute and specially recognise the steadfastness, discipline and focus of our troops for their result oriented efforts “, General Ajose stated. 

  • CDS to frontline troops: We owe you an immeasurable debt of gratitude

    CDS to frontline troops: We owe you an immeasurable debt of gratitude

    The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, stated that the country owes an immeasurable debt of gratitude to the troops on the frontlines for remaining vigilant and confronting diverse threats to our collective peace and security, while citizens enjoy Christmas with their loved ones.

    General Oluyede said this in a special tribute to frontline troops on the occasion of the Christmas celebration on Wednesday.

    He said, “I pay special tribute to our gallant frontline troops who, even during this sacred season, remain deployed across various theatres of operation in the defence of our nation. 

    “Your courage, discipline, professionalism, and selfless service often at great personal sacrifice epitomise the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. You remain vigilant, confronting diverse threats to our collective peace and security, while others enjoy Christmas with their loved ones. For this, the nation owes you an immeasurable debt of gratitude.”

    In a statement personally signed by him, the CDS thanked citizens for their resilience, patriotism, and continued support of the military, despite the multifaceted security challenges confronting the nation.

    He noted that Christmas is a season that embodies love, sacrifice, hope, and renewal, offering us a solemn opportunity to reflect on our shared humanity, our collective responsibilities as a nation, as well as our unwavering commitment to peace, unity, and national progress.

    The CDS said that Nigerians’ steadfast belief in the Nigerian project remains a vital source of strength and motivation for our troops, stressing that trust, cooperation, and synergy between the military and the citizenry are indispensable to the attainment of sustainable peace and security in the country. 

    He assured that the military would continue to remain resolute in its constitutional mandate to defend Nigeria’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and democratic institutions.

    General Oluyede reassured the personnel of the Armed Forces that their welfare remains a top priority and main focus under his leadership. 

    “We are firmly committed to improving the living and working conditions of our personnel and their families through enhanced welfare packages, improved healthcare delivery, better accommodation, timely payment of allowances, and sustained support for the families of our fallen heroes,” the CDS said.

    He urged Nigerians to use this festive period to promote peace, tolerance, and unity across ethnic, religious, and cultural lines, noting that “our diversity remains our strength and our collective resolve is the foundation upon which a secure, stable, and prosperous Nigeria will be built.”

    “As we celebrate this season of goodwill, I urge all members of the Armed Forces to reflect on the teachings of Christ, which express peace, love, forgiveness, selflessness, and purposeful service.”

    The CDS charged members of the Armed Forces to remain disciplined, professional, and loyal to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. 

    “We must also continue to uphold the values of honour, integrity and service to the nation,” he said 

    General Oluyede thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support of the Armed Forces. 

    “To our sister security agencies, I call for sustained collaboration, synergy, and unity of effort in our collective quest to safeguard our dear nation,” the CDS said.

  • Insecurity: We will modify training curriculum, adopt marksmanship, field craft — COAS

    Insecurity: We will modify training curriculum, adopt marksmanship, field craft — COAS

    The Chief of Army Staff(COAS), LT.-Gen Waidi Shaibu, has announced the plan to modify the training curriculum in the three Nigerian Army’s depots as part of renewed efforts to combat insecurity and banditry in the country. 

    Shaibu noted that the military will adopt marksmanship and essential field craft skills to make results-oriented soldiers across the nation. 

    The COAS speaking at the maiden Passing Out Parade of 89 Regular Recruits Intake at Nigerian Army Depot, Osogbo, Osun State on Saturday, disclosed that 3,500 soldiers will be deployed to stem the tide of insecurity. 

    Addressing the new recruits, he attested that the six months training has transformed the young men and women into disciplined, resilient, and patriotic Nigerian soldiers. 

    According to him, “It is indeed a thing of pride to be the pioneer set of recruits to have been trained here. You must therefore wear this badge with honour and act as worthy ambassadors of this institution throughout the span of your careers.

    “You are joining the Army at a critical period in our history when our country is faced with diverse security challenges. Indeed, you have chosen a noble path of honour that is paved with challenges, but these challenges are not unsurmountable.”

    He noted that the new intake have been exposed purposeful leadership which will be useful for them on the field, urging them to reflect upon the values that they imbibed during training and in the moments of adversity, they should draw strength from training’s guiding principle of success.

    He added that the current threat landscape of Nigeria has brought to the fore, the need for increased recruitment towards a surge in our manpower strength, saying “the new intake should be mindful. 

    COAS said, “An increase in quantity without a corresponding enhancement of the quality of our troops will negate the entire strategic goal. It is therefore gratifying to state here today that apart from Depot Nigerian Army Zaria and Depot Nigerian Army Osogbo, the newly approved Depot Nigerian Army Abakaliki will come on stream very soon. 

    “Going forward, the training curriculum in all 3 of our Depots will be modified and streamlined to focus on marksmanship and other requisite field craft skills necessary to produce fit, adept and result-oriented soldiers.”

    He disclosed that necessary measures have been put in place to cater for soldiers welfare and wellbeing in and out of service. 

    He also lauded President Bola Tinubu, for his steadfast belief and unwavering support to the Nigerian Army, noting that “His strategic guidance has indeed been pivotal to our successes and milestone achievements.”

    Earlier, in the remark of Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, he pleaded with the COAS to help the state to fight against the infiltration of bandits from Kwara to Osun State. 

    He promised to provide necessary support for the military to achieve its mission by combating any aggression against peace of the state and Nigeria as a whole. 

    He said, “I seek further support of the military and especially the Army to contain infiltration of bandits into Osun from Kwara state. The threat is real amd we strongly believe the ongoing operation will contain the threats.”

  • CDS to youths: use sports to build a safer, prosperous nation

    CDS to youths: use sports to build a safer, prosperous nation

    The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has urged Nigerian youths to harness sports as a tool for national unity, security and economic growth.

    Oluyede made the call at the opening of the maiden CDS Under-15 Boys Football Championship at the Sharks Football Club Stadium, Port Harcourt, Rivers State on Monday. 

    He was represented by the Chief of Administration, Defence Headquarters, Rear Admiral Gideon Kachim.

    He said the championship was designed to unite communities, promote healthy competition and develop values such as teamwork, discipline and resilience among youths. 

    According to him, the initiative also aims to strengthen civil-military relations by engaging young people positively and discouraging youth restiveness and social vices.

    The six-day tournament featured teams from Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Abia and Imo states, as well as the Rivers Military Team. 

    Earlier, the Director of Sports, Defence Headquarters, Air Vice Marshal Babatunde Phillips, said the championship was aimed at identifying young talents, fostering unity and addressing challenges such as insecurity and drug abuse through sports.

    The opening match saw the Rivers Military Team defeat the Delta Military Team 2–0. The tournament will end on December 20.

    Meanwhile, the President of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), Mrs Safiyyah Hassan Shaibu, has commissioned life-saving medical equipment donated to the Accident and Emergency Ward of the Military Hospital, Ikoyi, Lagos.

    The donation, which included oxygen concentrators, patient monitors, suctioning machines, an autoclave sterilising unit and an automated external defibrillator, also covered the renovation of the ward as part of activities marking the Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference 2025.

    The Chief Medical Director of the hospital, Brigadier General Ebute, commended NAOWA for the intervention, saying the equipment would improve emergency response and patient care. 

    He added that the hospital, which currently accommodates about 10 emergency patients, requires expansion to meet growing demand.

  • Business leader Odina hails ex-CDS Musa’s patriotic service, reforms in Armed Forces

    Business leader Odina hails ex-CDS Musa’s patriotic service, reforms in Armed Forces

    The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Green Lunar Nigeria Limited, Olaniyi Odina, has praised the immediate past Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa (rtd.), describing him as a patriotic officer whose tenure strengthened professionalism, discipline, and strategic reforms within the Nigerian Armed Forces.

    In a tribute, Odina said he took great pride in General Musa’s achievements, noting that his leadership left a profound and lasting impact on national security and defence operations.

    Reflecting on his long-standing personal relationship with the retired military chief, Odina stated, “I have known General Christopher Musa since I was a young boy, and it gives me a great sense of pride to see how far he has come. He has served Nigeria with uncommon dedication, courage, and humility. Watching him rise to the pinnacle of military leadership as Chief of Defence Staff was a moment of deep joy for me and for every patriotic Nigerian.”

    He commended the former CDS for his unwavering commitment to national unity and domestic security, especially his role in leading Operation Hadin Kai, the military’s counterterrorism mission in the North-East.

    Odina added that under General Musa’s leadership, the Armed Forces made notable progress in combating insurgency and banditry while strengthening collaboration among the services.

    “General Musa led with intellect and integrity. His calm approach to difficult national security challenges reflected maturity and strategic depth. He prioritized the welfare of troops, strengthened civil-military relations, and ensured that Nigeria’s defence posture remained resilient in the face of global and internal threats,” he said.

    Odina further described him as “a fine officer and a gentleman whose service will continue to inspire generations of young Nigerians.”

    He called on the Federal Government to continue tapping into General Musa’s wealth of experience in security strategy and national defence planning.

    “Retirement does not end the call to serve one’s country. May God bless him for his sacrifices to our fatherland and grant him long life, good health, and peace in this new chapter of his life,” Odina concluded.

  • CDS, service chiefs have made tremendous gains in war against terrorism, banditry – Agbese

    CDS, service chiefs have made tremendous gains in war against terrorism, banditry – Agbese

    …hails CNS, COAS as outstanding officers globally respected for their performance

    The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Hon. Philip Agbese, has lauded the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, and the service chiefs for what he described as tangible and strategic gains in Nigeria’s campaign against terrorism, banditry, and other crimes threatening national stability.

    Agbese, who represents Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency of Benue State, said the current military leadership has reinvigorated counter-insurgency and counter-banditry operations in a manner that is restoring public confidence.

    He insisted that recent calls in some quarters for the removal of the service chiefs were “propaganda warfare” from terrorist networks, designed to demoralise troops and distract the public from ongoing successes.

    Speaking with journalists on Thursday at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on his way to an international engagement, the UK-trained lawyer urged Nigerians to resist narratives that weaken the morale of fighting forces.

    “The service chiefs have given us clear evidence that Nigeria can win this war. The terrorists and their enablers understand this, so they resort to psychological warfare. Their demand for a change of leadership is not for Nigeria’s benefit — it is a survival tactic for terror,” Agbese said.

    He singled out General Musa for praise, pointing to his coordination of joint military operations and his ability to align the different services under a unified counter-terrorism framework.

    According to him, the hosting of the African Defence Chiefs’ Summit in Abuja in August was a landmark achievement that showed Musa’s vision extended beyond Nigeria to the continent at large.

    “That summit was not just a gathering; it was a statement. Nigeria, under General Musa, showed leadership by convening African militaries to discuss African solutions to African problems,” Agbese said.

    Agbese also commended the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, for his determined fight against oil theft, illegal refining, and maritime crime.

    He said the Navy’s successes in protecting pipelines and curbing smuggling have translated directly into improved revenue inflows for the government.

    “The Chief of Naval Staff has demonstrated uncommon commitment in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain. His leadership in curbing pipeline vandalism, oil theft, and other maritime crimes has not only secured vital national assets but also restored confidence in our waters. Today, illegal oil smuggling is no longer the thriving industry it once was, thanks to his strategic innovations and the dedication of naval officers under his command,” Agbese said.

    “By protecting the nation’s blue economy, the Chief of Naval Staff has helped to stabilise government revenue at a time when Nigeria’s economic survival depends on it. His efforts resonate far beyond our shores, earning him respect in the global naval community. I commend him for showing that with vision and discipline, our armed forces can deliver solutions that transform both our economy and our security.”

    On the role of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, Agbese, was emphatic that his field-driven leadership style has begun to turn the tide in troubled theatres of operation.

    He said Oluyede’s tactical innovations and insistence on officers leading from the front have boosted morale among soldiers and shaken the confidence of insurgents and bandits.

    “General Oluyede is not a desk officer; he is on the ground with the troops. His operational strategy has degraded terrorist enclaves in the North-East and weakened bandit networks in the North-West. Communities are regaining confidence because they see the Army’s presence and feel its renewed vigour,” Agbese observed.

    He added that Oluyede’s outreach to local communities in conflict zones has also created fresh avenues for intelligence-gathering, which is proving decisive in anticipating and thwarting attacks.

    “Security cannot be won by bullets alone; it requires the trust of the people. General Oluyede understands this and has fostered the kind of community collaboration that gives our troops a critical advantage,” he said.

    Read Also: Why 10th House will defend Speaker Abbas, by Deputy Spokesman Agbese

    Agbese, who is also a member of the Pan-African Parliament, pledged to use his continental platform to push for deeper regional defence cooperation.

    “I will present model laws at the forthcoming Pan-African Parliament plenary in Johannesburg. Nigeria must not only lead the fight with strength on the battlefield but also with intellect at the policy level,” Agbese said.

    He explained that the PAP develops laws for domestication across the continent, adding: “There is no better time to design a continental framework for combating insecurity than now, when Nigeria’s security architecture has taken the lead and is yielding results.”

    On calls for the sack of the service chiefs, the deputy spokesperson said Nigerians must reject the “propaganda of despair.” According to him, those amplifying such calls are unwittingly aiding a terrorist strategy.

    “Our service chiefs are among the finest officers in Africa today. They are respected globally for their professionalism and results. To call for their removal now is to sabotage the progress we are making. We cannot allow terrorists to set our agenda,” he declared.

    Agbese urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in their support for the armed forces while holding leaders accountable through constructive engagements.

  • Securing Nigeria, Africa, our top priority, says CDS

    Securing Nigeria, Africa, our top priority, says CDS

    The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, says the military would do everything possible to secure Nigeria and the African continent against security threats.

    Speaking on Wednesday during a press conference on the forthcoming Maiden African Chiefs of Defence Staff Summit slated for Aug. 25 to Aug. 27, the CDS said Nigeria had, over the years, demonstrated readiness to protect its sovereignty, support neighbours, and contribute to peace and stability efforts across the continent.

    He said the theme of the summit, “Combating Contemporary Threats to Peace and Security in Africa,” was carefully chosen in order for the African Defence Chiefs to brainstorm to find solutions to the continent’s security challenges.

    He said, “We have invited all 54 African countries, and I am pleased to announce that we have recorded over 90 per cent attendance. This reflects our shared recognition of the need to unite against common threats.

    “Our goal is to strengthen rapid crisis response capabilities, establish joint training exercises, enhance intelligence sharing, and develop a unified continental strategy to address our security challenges.

    The CDS emphasised the importance of solidarity, mutual respect, and cultural understanding among African nations, noting that Africa’s security was directly linked to its economic growth and development.

    “A secure Africa is a prosperous Africa. We must step up, work together as brothers and sisters, and act now before it is too late. Our collective will is our greatest weapon,” he said.

    The CDS commended President Bola Tinubu for his renewed commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s security posture and for supporting initiatives that promote regional peace and stability.

    According to him, the summit is an opportunity to forge lasting partnerships, pool resources, and ensure that Africa is prepared to respond effectively to any crisis.

    Gen. Musa said Nigeria is rebranding its Defence Industries Corporation to standardise local production, strengthen security, and boost indigenous military capacity.

    He said the new approach would ensure all companies producing defence-related equipment work under the Defence Industries Corporation, with mandatory approval from the National Security Adviser’s office and the Ministry of Defence.

    He noted that Nigeria had begun procuring armoured vehicles, drones, and other military hardware from local firms such as ProForce and Imperium, while also retrofitting damaged equipment to extend service life.

    The CDS said the move would not only enhance national security but also create jobs, open export markets to neighbouring countries, and instil national pride in homegrown defence capabilities.

    He said, “We want to synergise and harmonise their work, standardise it, and make sure the equipment we produce does not get into the wrong hands.

    “We have the ProForce, we have the Emperium, and EPAIL. We have so many of them that also produce one or two things together.

    Read Also: CDS tours Plateau, assures of enhanced strategies to end attacks

    “Now, what we are doing is, we are rebranding the entire defence industry corporation so that all companies that are coming to work on anything defence must have approval.

    “Why we need to do that is so that we can synergise and harmonise their work, standardise it, and make sure that the equipment we produce does not enter the wrong hands.”

    Musa said that producing defence equipment locally would help enhance capabilities and create employment for Nigerians, adding that it would be a win-win situation for the country.

    On regional cooperation, Musa emphasised the need for African countries to work together against asymmetric threats, which he said “do not respect borders,” and called for stronger collaboration through the African Standby Force.

    “Despite our different doctrines, we are able to work together as Africans, neighbours, brothers and sisters to achieve common security goals,” he said.