The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, has called on Nigerians to view the military as partners in progress, rather than an occupying force.
Musa made the plea at the maiden Defence Headquarters Civil-Military Relations Conference 2025 in Abuja.
The conference, themed ” _Winning Hearts and Minds: Non-Kinetic Approaches to National Security,_ ” aimed to promote a people-centric approach to security.
Musa noted that the relationship between the military and civilians has been marred by suspicion, fear, and mistrust.
“The military has been seen not as a partner in progress, but as an occupying force, alien to the people it is meant to serve and protect,” he said.
However, he emphasized that the Armed Forces of Nigeria are a constitutionally established institution, accountable to the Nigerian people.
Musa stressed the need for a shift from a purely kinetic approach to one that prioritizes trust-building, respect for human rights, and community partnership.
“It challenges us to think beyond weapons and warfare. It calls on us to invest in human security, to build resilient communities, and to reinforce the idea that every Nigerian has a stake in the peace and prosperity of our great nation,” he said.
The CDS emphasized that the conference was a strategic initiative aimed at promoting honest engagement, thoughtful reflection, and practical collaboration between the military and civilians.
Chief of Defence Civil-Military Relations, Rear Adm. Olusanya Bankole, noted that the event marked a significant milestone in the military’s commitment to a people-centric approach.
The conference seeks to change negative narratives about the Nigerian armed forces and promote non-kinetic strategies for peace, dialogue, and outreach.
