CDS Gen. Musa Rallies Media as Key Ally in War Against Terrorism, Marks Two Years in Office
CDS Gen. Musa Rallies Media as Key Ally in War Against Terrorism, Marks Two Years in Office
CDS Gen. Musa Rallies Media as Key Ally in War Against Terrorism, Marks Two Years in Office
By Ayshatu S. Rabo
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has underscored the indispensable role of the media in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against terrorism, insurgency, and other security threats, describing it as a “central force” in the war for public trust and national unity.
Gen. Musa made this assertion during an expanded parley with media executives held Thursday in Abuja to commemorate his two years of service as CDS. The high-level engagement brought together security chiefs, media leaders, senior government officials, and communication experts to foster collaboration between the military and the media in shaping national discourse on security.
Highlighting the unconventional and adaptive nature of threats confronting the country—from terrorism and banditry to secessionist violence and organized crime—the CDS emphasized the need for a “comprehensive, multidimensional, and multidisciplinary approach” to national security. He said the Armed Forces have adopted a “Whole-of-Society Approach” that seeks synergy between the military, government institutions, and the citizenry.
“In today’s battles, especially those against insurgents, we are not only engaging in kinetic warfare but also in the battle for hearts and minds,” Musa said. “In this non-kinetic theatre, the media is not just an observer but a powerful actor in shaping public perception.”
He urged media professionals to uphold objectivity and national interest in their reporting, warning that inaccurate or sensational narratives can erode public confidence and embolden the enemy. “We seek a professional, objective, and nation-oriented partnership with the media,” he added.
Musa reaffirmed the military’s unwavering commitment to defending Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He disclosed that non-kinetic strategies now constitute more than 70 percent of the Armed Forces’ asymmetric warfare efforts, further emphasizing the critical role of information management and public perception.
Also speaking at the event, Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, represented by his Special Adviser (Technical), Maj.-Gen. Ahmed Tijani Jibrin (rtd), noted that national security is a collective responsibility requiring the active participation of all Nigerians—especially the media.
“The media is the veritable backbone of our nation. Your responsibility in ensuring accurate, timely, and constructive reportage is vital to building morale and public trust,” he said.
He acknowledged visible progress in the fight against terrorism, despite persistent negative narratives. “Despite skepticism in some quarters, the Armed Forces are steadily turning the tide against insurgents, bandits, and other criminal elements,” the minister said, while commending the Service Chiefs for their focused and tireless leadership.
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In his remarks, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi, called on media houses to stop amplifying the voices and activities of terrorists. Instead, he appealed to journalists to use their platforms to highlight the sacrifices and progress made by the Armed Forces.
“It is disheartening to see criminal elements make headlines while the heroism of our troops is relegated,” Malagi lamented. He cited emotional footage shown during the event, including that of a female officer who lost a leg in combat but continues to serve with pride. “Her courage must serve as a moral compass for us all,” he said.
Malagi praised General Musa for fostering transparency and promoting civil-military engagement through platforms like the media parley. He reminded journalists that their editorial choices influence not just public opinion but national security outcomes.
Representatives of the three branches of the military also provided operational updates. Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, represented by Maj.-Gen. Paul Koughna, disclosed that Nigerian Army troops have eliminated several high-profile terrorists across the North-East, North-West, North-Central, and South-East regions in the last two years. Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla, through Rear Adm. Olusegun Soyemi, reported that the Navy has intensified its maritime security efforts, safeguarding Nigeria’s coastal assets and contributing to national economic growth. Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, represented by AVM Edward Gabkwet, revealed that the NAF has flown over 4,500 hours in more than 2,300 sorties for counter-terrorism missions in the past year alone. He said the NAF had received 15 new aircraft since 2023, with 49 more expected by 2026.
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Thursday’s engagement, part of the Defence Headquarters’ broader civil-military relations strategy, is aimed at deepening institutional trust, dispelling misinformation, and ensuring accurate reportage of military operations across Nigeria.
General Musa concluded the session with a call for unified action: “Together with the media as allies we can shape a narrative that reflects not just the challenges we face but the resilience, strength, and progress of our great nation.”
CDS Gen. Musa Rallies Media as Key Ally in War Against Terrorism, Marks Two Years in Office
