The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has issued a clear directive to officers of the Nigerian Armed Forces, emphasizing the need to protect the lives of innocent citizens while fulfilling their duty to safeguard the nation.
During his official visit to the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in Kaduna State on Friday, General Musa underscored the critical role of the military in preserving the nation’s sovereignty without causing harm to its people. The visit was also marked by the inauguration of several completed projects aimed at enhancing the welfare and training of cadets.
“Our Duty Is to Protect”
Addressing officers and cadets, the CDS highlighted the paramount importance of upholding the military’s responsibility to protect the nation.
“We must understand that the Armed Forces of Nigeria is for Nigeria and for Nigerians,” Musa said. “Our duty is to protect Nigeria, to protect our sovereignty whether within or outside. It is not to harm innocent people, that we must understand.”
He further urged the cadets to internalize this principle as they progress in their military careers. “As you grow in the system, understand this clearly: our duty is to protect and defend our country,” he added.
Adapting to Modern Warfare
General Musa stressed the evolving nature of warfare, particularly with the emergence of artificial intelligence and modern technology in combating insecurity. He cautioned against complacency and self-serving behavior among officers, noting that the era of abandoning duties for personal gain was over.
“Officers must prepare themselves for the dynamic challenges ahead. No officer will be granted soft landing; you will be posted to difficult terrains to fulfill your responsibilities to the nation,” Musa warned.
Enhancing Training with Technology
Echoing the CDS’s sentiments, Major General John Ochai, Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy, called attention to the critical role of information technology in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.
“The effective use of Information Communication Technology (ICT) in modern warfare and counter-terrorism operations cannot be overstated,” Ochai said. He detailed efforts by the NDA to incorporate ICT into its training programs, equipping cadets with essential skills to confront threats such as terrorism, banditry, and other emerging security issues.
This approach aligns with global trends in military training, where technological advancements are increasingly integrated into defense strategies to improve efficiency and outcomes.
Focus on Welfare and Training
As part of his visit, General Musa inaugurated several key projects within the NDA, signaling a commitment to enhancing the welfare of military personnel and the quality of training provided to cadets.
Among the completed projects were a state-of-the-art emergency and trauma center, an operational base, and a complex for basic military training. These facilities are expected to significantly improve the academy’s capacity to train officers and provide critical healthcare services.
The CDS was accompanied by top military officers, their spouses, and the NDA Commandant during the tour of these facilities, underscoring the collaborative effort to improve conditions within the armed forces.
Background on Challenges
Nigeria’s security landscape remains fraught with challenges, ranging from insurgency in the Northeast to banditry and kidnapping in other parts of the country. The military has often faced criticism for allegations of human rights violations during operations, making the CDS’s statement particularly significant.
Over the years, international bodies and local organizations have called for greater accountability and professionalism within Nigeria’s armed forces. General Musa’s warning to officers reflects an acknowledgment of these concerns and a resolve to address them through leadership and training reforms.
The Path Forward
As Nigeria grapples with complex security issues, the emphasis on professionalism, accountability, and technological innovation within the military is expected to play a crucial role. General Musa’s visit to the NDA and his clear directives to officers and cadets demonstrate a commitment to fostering a disciplined and responsive military force.
“Our role is to protect the nation and its people, not to harm them,” Musa reiterated, setting a tone of responsibility and integrity for the Nigerian Armed Forces moving forward.
The message from the CDS is clear: the military must rise to the challenge of defending Nigeria without compromising the safety and dignity of its citizens. By leveraging modern training, embracing technology, and upholding ethical standards, the armed forces can strengthen their capacity to secure the nation against internal and external threats.
