Things Are Getting Better, CDS Tells Nigerians

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has said that the security situation in the country is improving and urged Nigerians to continue supporting the efforts of the security forces.

General Musa made this statement on Saturday in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, during a conference on countering violent extremism in the Northeast. The event was organised by the Khalthum Foundation for Peace, the Network of Civil Society Organisations, and the Borno State Youth Parliament.

“I want to appeal that we should not get tired, things are getting better,” the CDS said. “We must continue to cooperate with security forces so that we can have total peace in Borno State and the Northeast in general.”

Speaking on the theme, Countering Violent Extremism: The Role of Educational Institutions and Students, General Musa highlighted the importance of youths, particularly students, in promoting peace and countering extremist narratives.

“Let us speak through social media, TV, and radio to counter extremist narratives and promote peace,” he urged.

He emphasised that the sensitisation programme was timely, aiming to promote grassroots awareness and action in embracing peace and combating radicalisation through education, civic responsibility, and dialogue.

“It is particularly important now to clarify right from wrong, especially as our adversaries exploit vulnerabilities such as illiteracy, poverty, and the fault lines of ethnicity and religion,” he said.

General Musa also commended the organisers of the event, describing the programme as critical in awakening students to their role as security stakeholders.

Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer of the Kalthum Foundation for Peace, Ummukalthum Mohammed, expressed gratitude to the CDS, his troops, and other partners for their ongoing efforts in combating terrorism, including the fight against Boko Haram.

After the conference, General Musa visited the Maimalari Military Hospital, where he sympathised with wounded soldiers receiving treatment. During the visit, various donations, including cash, drugs, and medical equipment, were made by philanthropist Dr. Paul Odilli, who accompanied the CDS.