By Harriet Tornguvan -Abuja
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has called on all Joint Taskforce Commanders to engage proactively with community and religious leaders, as well as other key stakeholders. He emphasized that fostering collaboration and addressing grievances collectively would help build resilient communities capable of securing their future.
General Musa made this statement during the closing ceremony of the three-day Chief of Defence Staff Joint Taskforce Commanders Conference in Abuja. Themed "Enhancing Jointness Across All Theatres of Operation," the conference provided a platform for reviewing operational strategies and strengthening inter-agency cooperation.
General Musa underscored the importance of unity and cooperation in tackling security challenges. He noted that the event enabled commanders to assess their collective efforts, identify challenges, and develop practical measures for improving synergy among the armed forces and other security agencies.
Guest speakers at the conference highlighted the strategic significance of a whole-of-society approach to national security. Additionally, field commanders provided updates on their operational activities and the difficulties they face in different theatres of operation.
General Musa stressed the need for a unified approach, innovation, and political commitment in addressing security threats. He urged the armed forces to foster a culture of cooperation by breaking down barriers, sharing resources, and leveraging each other’s strengths.
"By working together seamlessly and integrating our strengths, we can maximize our collective impact and achieve our shared objectives. This spirit of jointness must be carried forward into our daily operations," he stated.
The CDS also reiterated the necessity of maintaining strong relationships with local communities, emphasizing that trust and support from the population are vital in addressing security threats.
General Musa charged commanders to be innovative and adaptive. He urged them to continuously refine their strategies and embrace technological advancements to counter emerging threats effectively.
"Embracing new technologies and fostering a learning mindset is essential for maintaining our operational edge. We must encourage our personnel to think creatively, challenge conventional wisdom, and embrace change to achieve continuous improvement," he emphasized.
Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of prioritizing the welfare and professional development of military personnel. "Our greatest asset remains our human capital. It is through their dedication and resilience that we achieve success. As leaders, you must ensure their well-being and provide them with the necessary resources for growth and effectiveness," he added.
General Musa assured commanders that the Defence Headquarters would continue to invest in training, welfare, and the provision of combat enablers to support their operational objectives.
The former Chief of Defence Staff, Air Marshal Oluseyi Petinrin (rtd), emphasized the need for national unity and collaboration.
He called on security agencies and citizens to work together in addressing security concerns, stating that a collective approach would pave the way for national development.
"We must work together and support the military and government to ensure success in our security efforts. Unity is the key to progress," he remarked.
The conference concluded with a medal decoration ceremony, honoring distinguished senior officers and former commanders for their contributions to national security. Awardees included former Chiefs of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, and other high-ranking officials. The recipients were recognized for their service with prestigious medals.
Among those honored were Air Marshal Petinrin (rtd) Admiral O.S Ibrahim (rtd) Lieutenant General OA Ihejirika (rtd) Chief of Army staff Lt. Gen Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Emmanuel Okechukwu Ogalla, and Major General Waidi Shaibu the Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai.
The three-day conference provided a valuable opportunity for military leaders to exchange insights, assess security operations, and reinforce joint efforts to enhance national security. Moving forward, the resolutions and recommendations from the event are expected to shape the future strategies of the Nigerian armed forces in safeguarding the nation.
