The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (retd), has called on Nigerians to work together as one family to overcome insecurity across the country. He said unity, justice, and forgiveness are key to defeating violence and restoring peace in all communities.
General Musa made this call while speaking at the 2025 At Yap Buffet, an event held in his honour by the At Yap Chiefdom in Kaduna State. The event brought together traditional rulers, government officials, community leaders, and residents from different parts of the state.
The Defence Minister said insecurity remains one of the biggest challenges facing Nigeria, but it can be overcome if Nigerians come together and reject all forms of evil. According to him, the fight against insecurity is not the responsibility of the government alone, but a collective duty that requires the support of all citizens.
“For Nigeria to overcome insecurity in every part of the country, Nigerians must work together as a family to eliminate all evil forces,” Musa said. “There is a need for justice, because justice brings progress and development to every community.”
He explained that his primary duty as Minister of Defence is to protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity and ensure the safety of lives and property. He noted that many communities, especially in Kaduna State and the wider North-West region, have suffered serious security challenges over the years.
Kaduna State has been one of the states affected by banditry, kidnapping, and communal clashes. Several rural communities have faced attacks that have led to loss of lives, displacement of residents, and disruption of farming and other economic activities. Despite efforts by security agencies, the problem has persisted, causing fear and hardship for many families.
General Musa said these challenges must be addressed urgently so that Nigerians can go about their lawful activities without fear. He stressed that peace and security are necessary for improved living standards and national development.
“There is a need to urgently address these issues so that Nigerians can lawfully undertake their duties for improved standards of living and a better society,” he said.
The Defence Minister admitted that mistakes were made in the past in handling security issues but assured Nigerians that lessons have been learned. He said the current leadership is determined to do things differently and focus on lasting peace.
“Yes, mistakes have been made before, but from now onwards, we are determined to make peace in the interest of everyone in society,” he added.
Musa also sent a strong message to criminal groups threatening lives across the country. He said the government would no longer tolerate attacks on innocent citizens and warned that security forces are ready to deal with enemies of the state.
“The days of threats to the lives of Nigerians are over,” he said. “The enemies of the state are not sleeping, and we will also not rest until they are completely dealt with.”
He praised traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community members for their resilience and support in the fight against insecurity. According to him, their role in promoting peace, dialogue, and unity at the grassroots level is very important.
The Defence Minister urged Nigerians to learn to forgive one another and live in peace, saying that forgiveness is necessary for national growth and development. He said hatred and division only slow down progress and make it easier for criminals to operate.
Also speaking at the event, Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, who was represented by his deputy, Dr Hadiza Sabuwa Balarebe, described General Musa as a disciplined and hardworking leader. She said his rise to the position of Minister of Defence was the result of years of dedication and service to the nation.
“The Minister of Defence has chosen the path of hard work and discipline to rise to the position he now occupies,” Balarebe said.
She added that the Kaduna State Government has confidence in General Musa’s ability to succeed in his current assignment. According to her, the state believes he will play a major role in improving security across Nigeria.
“We believe in him to succeed in the assignment given to him by President Bola Tinubu,” she said. “We pray that God will grant him the wisdom, strength, and guidance to carry out the tasks ahead.”
Kaduna State, like many states in northern Nigeria, has worked closely with federal security agencies to address security challenges. The state government has also invested in local peace efforts, dialogue with communities, and support for victims of violence.
The paramount ruler of the At Yap Chiefdom, Sir Dominic Yahaya, also spoke at the event. He called for peaceful coexistence among people of different backgrounds in Kaduna State and across Nigeria. He urged Nigerians to see one another as brothers and sisters and to always promote peace in their daily lives.
“Nigerians should be their brother’s keepers in all spheres of life,” the traditional ruler said. “Peaceful coexistence is very important for our communities, our state, and our country.”
Sir Dominic praised the Defence Minister for his service to the nation and thanked him for identifying with his people. He said traditional institutions are ready to support government efforts aimed at restoring peace and unity.
The At Yap Buffet is an annual cultural and social event that celebrates unity, tradition, and leadership within the At Yap Chiefdom. This year’s event was organised to honour General Musa for his national service and contributions to security.