By SADIQ ABUBAKAR, Maiduguri –
Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Christopher Musa has praised the remarkable progress of Operation Hadin Kai under its new leadership, spotlighting its role in restoring peace to Nigeria’s embattled North East.
Speaking at the opening of a four-day Human Security and Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) Workshop at the Theater Command Officers’ Mess in Maiduguri, Musa emphasized the importance of combining kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to tackle insecurity and foster lasting stability.
“The success of modern military operations depends not only on tactical victories but also on our ability to enhance human security, build resilience, and foster peace,” Musa said.
The CDS , who was represented by the Chief of Defence, Civil-Military Relations, Rear Admiral Olusanya A. Bankole, commended Operation Hadin Kai’s commitment to both combat and community engagement, noting that collaboration with civilians is “a welcome development towards a whole-of-society approach” to security.
The workshop, organized by the Defence Headquarters in partnership with the British Defence Staff, aims to equip participants with skills to develop peace-building programs in conflict zones.
“This training is timely as we face multiple challenges to our nation’s stability,” Musa declared.
“Embracing non-kinetic strategies allows us to navigate conflicts with dignity, fostering dialogue and collaboration to build more peaceful and resilient communities.”
Musa urged participants to engage deeply, learn from real-world case studies, and address systemic barriers to effective civil-military cooperation.
“Together, let us contribute meaningfully to a more secure, just, and resilient Nigeria,” he added, expressing gratitude to the British High Commission for their steadfast support in advancing the Nigerian Armed Forces’ professional development.
Theater Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, echoed Musa’s sentiments, stressing that security extends beyond the battlefield.
Represented by Deputy Theater Commander Air Vice Marshal Essien Efanga, Abubakar said, “Winning the war is not only about defeating adversaries but also about winning the trust, hearts, and minds of the people.”
He highlighted the workshop’s role in deepening understanding of human security and CIMIC, which he described as “critical enablers” for protecting vulnerable populations and building resilient societies.
The workshop features presentations on topics such as the Law of Armed Conflict, cultural property protection, and women’s roles in peacebuilding, aiming to strengthen CIMIC in counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations.
“This is a vital step toward addressing the root causes of conflict and fostering collaboration between the military and civilians,” Abubakar noted, urging participants to develop practical strategies for lasting impact.
As Nigeria grapples with multifaceted security threats, the call for a unified approach resonates strongly. “All of you must ensure peace prevails in every part of the country as a yardstick for meaningful development,” Musa charged, setting the tone for a workshop poised to redefine the military’s role in safeguarding Nigeria’s future.
