General CG Musa’s New Book Urges Nigerian Youths to Join Fight Against Insecurity

General CG Musa’s New Book Urges Nigerian Youths to Join Fight Against Insecurity

By Matthew Eloyi

A new book authored by Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, OFR, has been described as a powerful call to action for Nigerian youths to play a central role in addressing the country’s security challenges.

Titled “Taking a Stand Against Insurgency, Terrorism and Banditry: Admonition to Nigerian Youths”, the 197-page book, published in April 2025 by Sprezzatura Publishing Ltd, has received commendation from academics and security experts alike for its timely message and strategic insights.

In a review by Professor Ikenna Mike Alumona of the Department of Political Science, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, the book is hailed as “an impassioned plea” from a seasoned military leader to the youth of Nigeria. According to the professor, the book goes beyond rhetoric and offers practical guidance, steeped in the author’s experience as a former Theatre Commander of Operation HADIN KAI and current Chief of Defence Staff.

“The fight against Boko Haram and other criminal elements cannot be left to the military alone,” Prof Alumona noted, adding that “General Musa is urging young Nigerians to take ownership of their communities and engage proactively in restoring peace and security.”

According to the review, the book is divided into seventeen chapters, each addressing a critical component of the security landscape. From understanding terrorism and the roots of insurgency to the role of youth, community vigilance, technology, media, and resilience, General Musa weaves together a comprehensive strategy for national stability rooted in grassroots participation.

In the preface, as noted by Prof Alumona, General Musa stresses that peace is a prerequisite for development. “Our greatest and most invaluable asset in the ongoing fight against insurgents and bandits… is the unwavering support and active participation of our vibrant young people,” he wrote.

One of the standout chapters, according to Prof Alumona, is Chapter Sixteen titled “Resilience in the Face of Adversity”. In the chapter, General Musa argues that beyond counter-terrorism measures, building societal resilience is a powerful deterrent. “A population that possesses the ability to remain resilient in the face of terrorism… sends a strong message to terrorists that their tactics will not succeed,” he writes.

Other chapters explore key themes such as the impact of poverty, the role of leadership, the power of education, embracing diversity, and the strategic use of dialogue. General Musa also applauds government initiatives targeted at youth empowerment through agencies like SMEDAN and the Bank of Industry (BoI), as part of broader counter-insurgency efforts.

Prof Alumona emphasised that the book does not merely analyse problems but proposes solutions rooted in civic responsibility, education, and empathy. “This book should be a mandatory read in schools, youth centres, and government institutions,” he said, adding that “It underscores the fact that the war against terrorism will be won not just on the battlefield, but also in classrooms, communities, and homes.”

In addition to the chapters, the book features an appendix with relevant security resources and a photo album that documents Nigeria’s counter-insurgency journey, giving readers a visual and emotional connection to the narrative.

General CG Musa’s “Taking a Stand Against Insurgency, Terrorism and Banditry” is available under ISBN 978-978-58999-7-9. It is seen not just as a literary offering but as a strategic national tool aimed at fostering patriotism, security consciousness, and collective action among Nigeria’s youth.