CDS assures Nigerians of improved security, vows to pursue terror financiers globally
By: Zagazola Makama
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, says Nigeria’s security architecture has significantly improved over the past two years, assuring citizens that the Armed Forces will not relent until terrorists, their financiers, and enablers are dismantled locally and internationally.
Musa gave the assurance on Thursday when he featured on Channels Television’s flagship programme Politics Today.
He said the military remains resolute in working closely with governors and other stakeholders to rebuild public trust in government, which years of neglect and insurgency had eroded.
“The truth is that years and years of abandonment made people lose confidence. Now they are beginning to see actions being taken. Again, there is a lot of doubt, so we need to clear those doubts. What I can tell you is that we are committed.
“The governors are committed, and we are working together as a team to ensure that citizens see the benefits of governance and infrastructure delivery,” Musa said.
On the case of Simon Ekpa, a Finland-based separatist agitator linked to violent activities in the Southeast, the CDS disclosed that Ekpa remains under prosecution in Finland.
“Since he was arrested, the Southeast is getting better. We will continue to go after people like him wherever they are. Whatever it takes, we are going to bring them,” Musa stated.
He noted that the recent arrest of Ansaru members and other terror cells underscored the military’s resolve to pursue threats to national security without compromise.
Musa also announced that Nigeria would host the maiden African Chiefs of Defence Staff Conference in Abuja, beginning on Monday, with the aim of deepening collaboration against terrorism and transnational crimes across the continent.
“These incidents are not restricted to one country. Mozambique is facing issues, Ghana is beginning to feel the heat, Burkina Faso, Mali, and others are already deep in it. We must come together as brothers and sisters, discuss our problems, and provide solutions,” he added.
On intelligence gathering, Musa stressed the urgent need for Nigeria to acquire satellite imaging capabilities to improve surveillance and response to threats.
“I wish we could have satellites, because they allow you to see things directly and react quickly. These are expensive, but we are building capacity. The NSA, DSS, and NIA are doing a lot, and that’s why we are recording successes,” he said.
Speaking on defence financing, the CDS highlighted the enormous cost of modern warfare, noting that a single precision missile costs about $100,000 while drones, ships, and other platforms require billions of naira.
“Security is expensive. Look at the United States, their budget was $883 billion last year. In Afghanistan, America was spending nearly $1 billion a day. We can’t afford that, but with what we have, we are making progress,” Musa explained.
When asked if Nigeria is safer today compared to two years ago, Musa responded confidently:
“Proudly so. I know we are doing better. I have travelled across the country and everywhere people commend us for our efforts. Before now, attacks were rampant. Now they are slowing down. Markets are back, schools are opening, people go to church and mosque. Yes, there will still be incidents, but never like before.
“Nigeria will get better. The government is working hard, the Armed Forces are working hard, and Nigerians must love each other and protect one another. Together, we will succeed.”
