The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, has said the operational strength of terrorist groups, bandits, and other criminal networks across Nigeria has been significantly degraded.
Musa made this known on Monday while speaking at the 2025 Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Annual Conference held at Nebo Hall, Abalti Barracks, Lagos State.
He attributed the gains recorded in the fight against insecurity to the bravery of Nigerian troops, improved operational planning, and the effectiveness of coordinated joint and multi-agency operations.
“The reality remains that no single service, institution, or individual can tackle today’s security challenges in isolation. Sustainable success depends on unity of effort, joint operations, intelligence sharing, coordinated planning, and close collaboration among security agencies,” he said.
The defence minister stressed the need to balance operational achievements with the human dimension of military service, noting that the welfare of personnel must remain a priority.
He described the annual conference as a critical strategic platform for the Nigerian Army to review its operational posture, assess readiness and professionalism, and align future strategies with national security priorities.
“The significance of this conference cannot be overstated, particularly given the complex and evolving security environment facing our nation. Nigeria continues to confront threats such as terrorism, insurgency, banditry, transnational crime, and other asymmetric challenges that demand sustained strategic focus and adaptive leadership,” Musa said.
He further noted that security remains central to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasising that peace and stability are essential for national development.
“The Ministry of Defence will continue to provide strategic direction, policy support, and capability development to ensure that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain professional, responsive, and future-ready,” he added.
Musa also paid tribute to wounded soldiers and their families, acknowledging the physical, emotional, and psychological sacrifices they endure, and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to their welfare, medical care, and long-term support.
Commending the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant-General Waidi Shaibu, for his extensive operational experience, particularly in the North-East, the minister called for sustained innovation and proactive strategies to counter emerging security threats.
“We must continue to evolve, remain proactive, innovative, and resolute in our approach to safeguarding Nigeria,” he said.