In a powerful Christmas Day address, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, issued a stern warning to Nigerians to cease all forms of business dealings with terrorists, bandits, and other criminal groups that continue to destabilize the nation. The CDS, speaking during a visit to the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) Medical Centre, emphasized that any form of support for such groups—whether through trade or financial transactions—could potentially undermine the nation’s efforts to secure peace and safety for all.
The warning came after intelligence reports revealed that some unscrupulous individuals were providing material and financial support to criminal groups, directly aiding their operations. According to General Musa, these acts of sabotage were prolonging the country’s ongoing struggle with terrorism and banditry.
In his Christmas address, the CDS highlighted the significant progress the Nigerian military had made in counterterrorism operations over the past year. However, he underscored the need for greater public cooperation in the coming year to fully eradicate the menace of terrorism and banditry, which has plagued several regions of the country for years.
“I want to make it very clear that the fight against terrorism and banditry is not just the responsibility of the military,” General Musa stated. “It is a national fight, and every Nigerian must play their part. There are individuals who think they can make quick profits by trading with terrorists and bandits, but they must understand that they are putting not only their own lives at risk but also the safety of their loved ones. The terrorists and bandits have no loyalty to anyone, and they will not hesitate to target those who assist them.”
General Musa’s warning comes at a time when Nigeria continues to battle multiple security threats. While the military has made notable strides in combating insurgency in the northeast and banditry in the northwest, the persistence of criminal groups remains a significant challenge. According to the CDS, however, the tide is beginning to turn, and 2024 has seen marked improvements in security, with substantial gains made against terror groups like Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), as well as armed bandits in the northern regions.
“We’ve made considerable progress this year,” General Musa declared. “The situation is much better than when we began, but we know there’s still much work to do. Next year will be defining, and I promise Nigerians that we will continue to push forward with all our might to ensure that peace returns to every corner of the country. The effort will require everyone’s cooperation—especially from Nigerians who must stop supporting criminal elements, whether knowingly or unknowingly.”
He continued, stressing that it was crucial for Nigerians to realize the gravity of the situation and work together to cut off the financial lifeblood of these groups. “Terrorists and bandits thrive on the support of people who are willing to turn a blind eye for personal gain. If we stop trading with them, they won’t survive. We must make it clear that such activities will no longer be tolerated,” he said firmly.
The CDS also acknowledged the immense sacrifices made by the Nigerian military and security forces, who have been at the forefront of the battle to protect the nation. He expressed his gratitude to the soldiers, especially during the holiday season, recognizing that many were separated from their families to ensure the safety of citizens across the country.
General Musa’s visit to the DHQ Medical Centre, which coincided with both Christmas and his own birthday, was an opportunity for him to personally interact with sick soldiers and their families, offering support and encouragement. He also expressed his appreciation for the medical staff, who have worked tirelessly to care for the wounded soldiers and other patients.
“There is no greater honor than serving the men and women who have dedicated their lives to protecting the nation,” General Musa remarked. “I am here today not just to offer prayers but also to ensure that these brave soldiers and their families are not forgotten. They are our heroes, and their sacrifices will not go unrecognized.”
In a gesture of goodwill, the CDS distributed gifts to dozens of patients at the facility, hoping to lift their spirits during the festive season. He also assured that the new Defence Headquarters hospital, which is expected to be completed next year, would provide world-class medical services to the Armed Forces personnel and their families, further improving the care provided to those who serve the country.
While General Musa’s message to Nigerians was one of hope and determination, it was also one of urgency. With the challenges of terrorism and banditry far from over, he warned that the road to peace would be a long one, but one that would require full commitment from all Nigerians.
“The progress we’ve made so far is significant, but the war against terrorism and banditry will not be won overnight,” he said. “It’s a marathon, not a sprint. We must stay vigilant, work together, and above all, refuse to allow these criminals to gain any further foothold in our society. We are stronger when we unite, and I believe that, with the support of Nigerians, we will emerge victorious.”
