The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Armed Forces to ensuring a more secure nation in 2025. Speaking during a visit to Sector 7 of Operation Safe Haven in Samaru, Zangon Kataf Local Government Area of Southern Kaduna, General Musa commended the troops for their professionalism and sacrifice in safeguarding the country.
“Happy New Year to you all. I want to commend your efforts and sacrifices and assure you that the President is fully behind us,” General Musa said while addressing the troops. “This new base will come with challenges, but we are here to address them. We will ensure you have the equipment and support needed to carry out your duties effectively. Nigeria relies on us to ensure peace and security, and we must respect human rights while focusing on the bad elements threatening our nation.”
The CDS emphasized the importance of collaboration with other security agencies and civilians in achieving the military’s goals. “2024 was challenging, but we made remarkable improvements. For 2025, our plan is to bring more peace to Nigerians. We appreciate the support from the public and urge them to remain steadfast. The enemy is not sleeping, and neither should we,” he added.
During his visit, General Musa inspected the new Samaru operational base, assessing the troops’ readiness and ongoing construction efforts. He expressed optimism about achieving significant milestones in making the base operationally efficient. “I am pleased with the spirit of the troops. We are addressing their challenges, and with the President’s support, we are receiving new equipment, including APCs, MRAPs, motorcycles, and night-vision goggles,” he noted.
Accompanying the CDS, Major General AE Abubakar, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander Operation Safe Haven, praised the troops for their dedication. “We have critical combat enablers on the way, including night-vision goggles and motorcycles, which are essential for navigating the terrain. With these, we have no excuse not to deliver,” General Abubakar said.
The Senator representing Kaduna South, Barrister Sunday Marshall Katung, also commended the improved security situation in Southern Kaduna. “Since the advent of the new administration and service chiefs, we have witnessed better peace. The relationship between the civilian population and the military has also improved significantly,” he said. The senator highlighted the importance of continued military-civil collaboration for sustained peace and development.
As part of his visit, General Musa paid a courtesy call on the Chief of Kagoro, Chief Dr. Ufuwai Bonet, reaffirming the military’s commitment to fostering unity and security in the region.
With increased resources, strategic planning, and a focus on professionalism, the CDS expressed confidence in the military’s ability to achieve a safer Nigeria in 2025. “We are on the right path, and together, we will make Nigeria secure,” he concluded.
