Nigeria adopting multi-dimensional approach to tackle security challenges – CDS
By Mohammed Tijjani
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa on Friday said the military has adopted collaborative and multi-dimensional approach in tackling the security challenges in the country.
Musa made this known during the graduation of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC) Junior Course 98, at Jaji Military Cantonment, Kaduna State.
“It is a well-known fact that the country is currently faced with various complex security challenges.
“These complex threats call for a collaborative and multi-dimensional approach towards securing our collective future.
“In this regard, the military is working assiduously with other instruments of national power and other stakeholders to achieve our country’s strategic objective of defeating threats to our national security,” he said.
Musa noted that the college has over the years remained committed to providing world-class training for tactical and operational level officers to refine their intuition and sharpen their creative capability to respond adequately to complex security threats.
He added that the training offered by the college involved adapting tactical engagement in a collaborative environment, which has been “evident in the output of officers in the field”.
“This drive aligns with my leadership concept which is, ‘to Nurture a Professional Armed Forces of Nigeria that is People-Centric, Capable of Meeting its Constitutional Responsibilities in a Joint and Collaborative Environment’, ” he added.
Musa said that the training of the Grade 3 Staff Officers from the armed forces, other defence-related agencies and friendly nations, was in line with the institution’s role of refining the capabilities of military and related officers.
He, therefore, urged them to live up to expectations, and deploy their new skills towards achieving Nigeria’s strategic objectives.
“Remember you are part of the military’s effort in solving these challenges.
“You must therefore live up to these expectations and act as proud representatives of this distinguished institution upon graduation and do your part in surmounting these challenges.
“You must also remember that leadership is not about rank but about character, uprightness and inspiring others. Equally, teamwork is crucial to the attainment of success in all endeavours.
“Hence, you are required to collaborate, listen and empower your subordinates,” the CDS said.
He also told them to always adapt to any situation by staying agile, innovative, and evolving and maintaining the highest level of integrity.
Musa further tasked them to uphold the highest levels of discipline, including respect for the rule of law and human rights.
“We all must recognise that the citizens of this country and those of your respective countries will expect significantly greater professionalism from you in the conduct of your duties.
“Hence,the Armed Forces Act, Standing Operating Procedures, and Rules of Engagement for various operations should guide your activities, particularly in our Internal Security and Counter-Terrorism efforts.
“Protect your nation and its people and embody the values of this institution including courage, discipline and excellence.”
The CDS congratulated the students from Cameroon, Gambia and Ghana, advising them to maintain the relationships built during the course, as it will bolster strategic partnerships and foster military collaboration in the future.
He also told students from Ministries, Departments and Agencies that, though the military environment might be different, “our aim remains the same”, as such they should continue to synergise towards the attainment of national goals and objectives.
The CDS appreciated President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s defence and security architecture.
Earlier, the AFCSC Commandant, AVM Hassan Alhaji, expressed gratitude to the CDS for his support and mentorship, and highlighted the college’s efforts in reviewing and expanding its curriculum to address contemporary and emerging threats.
He said that the students were equipped with the necessary skills to operate efficiently in various operations, and charged them to uphold the values of discipline, integrity, loyalty, and service before self.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that awards were given to students who distinguished themselves during the training.