Insecurity: We’re On Top Of The Matter, CDS Assures

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, on Friday reassured Nigerians that the country’s security forces are operating with renewed determination to tackle the escalating security challenges.

His comments came shortly after a high-level meeting between President Bola Tinubu and top security chiefs, held behind closed doors at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

The meeting was convened in response to the deteriorating security situation in several parts of the country, particularly in the north, where Islamic extremists have intensified attacks on both civilians and military personnel.

Addressing journalists after the meeting—which included the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; Director-General of the Department of State Services, Mr. Adeola Ajayi; and the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun—General Musa said the focus was to assess Nigeria’s overall security landscape and to strategize the next steps.

He revealed that President Tinubu expressed deep concern over the current insecurity and instructed security agencies to take all necessary measures to safeguard lives and property.

“The president is concerned about what’s going on, and we have reassured him that we are on top of our game. We are working extremely hard,” General Musa said.

He highlighted the growing threat from jihadist movements across the Sahel region, noting that the instability in neighboring areas has begun to spill into Nigeria due to its porous borders.

“What has happened of late is that there’s a global push by terrorists and jihadists all over the Sahel. That pressure is what actually came into Nigeria,” he explained.

“Mr. President has given clear directives for us to intensify efforts and collaborate with our sister countries to deal with the cross-border threats.”

Musa disclosed that the president has already approved the acquisition of more military equipment, including aerial assets, to strengthen security operations in the nation’s most volatile regions.

He also stressed the need for a comprehensive approach that goes beyond military operations, calling for greater community involvement, enhanced intergovernmental coordination, and the effective delivery of governance at the grassroots level.

“This fight isn’t just about weapons. It’s also about ensuring communities feel the impact of governance,” the CDS noted.

He assured that all arms of the security apparatus are working cohesively toward a common goal.

“We are all working together—military, police, and intelligence services—under one purpose: a peaceful Nigeria.”

In response to concerns raised by governors, particularly in Borno and Plateau states, Musa underscored the critical role of multi-level cooperation across all tiers of government.

“Just yesterday, I returned from Maiduguri. We’ve been in the Northeast with ministers and other service chiefs. We’re working with all governors because we know we can’t do it alone,” he said.

General Musa also urged citizens to support the armed forces by staying alert and reporting any suspicious activity, cautioning against the spread of misinformation online.

“There’s a lot of fake news out there, old or foreign videos being passed off as current Nigerian crises. It’s unfortunate that some people celebrate when things go wrong in their own country,” he said.

“We must all work together. If you see something wrong, including misconduct by our personnel, report it; we will act.”

He concluded on a note of determination and unity, promising continued efforts to secure the nation.

“To those who doubt us or want to see us fail—we are going to keep succeeding. That is our assurance to all Nigerians.”