I feel highly honoured to be in your midst this afternoon to honour Nigeria’s indefatigable Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, Officer of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, with the award of ‘Most Outstanding Chief of Defence Staff in Security Management (2024).‘ Before delving into this, I would like to brief the distinguished General about our mission and modus operandi across all 36 states of the federation.

People’s Security Monitor is a media platform that primarily reports on security matters in Nigeria. Our primary responsibility is to serve as a platform, sustaining valid and viable advocacy in support of the government’s efforts to achieve ideal security for Nigeria and Nigerians. We aim to gather suggestions from all Nigerians on how to improve the nation’s security system, particularly regarding collaboration between various security operatives and the rest of the populace.

We are of the firm belief that all hands must be on deck with
concerted efforts to rescue Nigeria from the claws of agents of
insecurity. In support of this, sir, it may please you to know that we
have our representatives and media allies in all 774 local governments
of Nigeria, who collaborate with us and supply us with authentic
details of security-related stories as they unfold, particularly as it
concerns the protection of lives and properties.

At this point, we at the People’s Security Monitor strongly believe
that it is urgent for Nigeria’s civil populace to recognize the
necessity of establishing a valid and substantial partnership with the
nation’s military to achieve national security.

Ensuring Nigeria’s security is, of course, our collective
responsibility. Let me emphasize that despite the pervasive
insecurity, hope is not lost. And this hope is manifesting in the
strong resolve of the current administration under President Bola
Ahmed Tinubu to ensure a significant decline in the insecurity that
has tormented the nation for years.

Luckily enough, the Nigerian military, under the leadership of its
Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is headed by a
seasoned and consummate army general, General Christopher Gwabin Musa,
OFR, who serves as the Chief of Defence Staff. Without mincing words,
all kudos must be given to General Musa for his leadership of the
Nigerian military, due to his immense achievements since assuming
office.

General Musa’s tenure has prioritized joint operations and the
integration of efforts among the Army, Navy, and Air Force, as well as
other paramilitary agencies and civilian security structures. This has
yielded effective collaborative platforms, improved inter-operations,
and maximized resource utilization. Consequently, this approach has
curbed duplication of efforts and fostered a united front against
insurgents.

In a country marred by asymmetrical warfare, General Musa, an advocate
for the modernization of the military, has consistently championed the
enhancement of Nigeria’s military capabilities. These efforts include
the procurement of modern armaments, fortifying aerial surveillance
units, and enhancing cyber warfare capabilities necessary for a modern
super-military.

According to media records, General Musa also recognises the
significance of addressing the psycho-social factors contributing to
terrorism’s attraction. To rectify this, he has been advancing
de-radicalisation programmes, community engagement, and fostering
socio-economic endeavours that address the root causes of insurgent
recruitment. Efforts under his leadership to counter the ideologies
that feed Boko Haram are as critical as the physical battlefields
operations.

As CDS, General Musa has been a force and consistent voice to reckon
within diplomatic engagements that reinforce Nigeria’s resolve
against terrorism, advocating global support for combating insurgency,
participating in multi-national counterterrorism initiatives, and
navigating the security implications of international relations. His
advocacy for regional partnerships in the Lake Chad Basin and the
ECOWAS region has solidified collective action against shared security
threats.’

Under General Musa’s leadership, the Nigerian Armed Forces have
implemented a series of operational strategies that have intensified
efforts against insurgents. One such example is the reinforcement and
strengthening of ‘Operation Hadin Kai,’ which was launched to replace
the previous ‘Operation Lafiya Dole.’ This operation represents a
shift in tactics, focusing on a doctrine that moves away from purely
defensive posturing to more offensive operations aimed at decisively
defeating the insurgents.

Furthermore, General Musa has advanced the concept of “Super Camps,”
which consolidates military presence in strategic locations, thereby
giving the forces the flexibility to launch swift and precise
counterinsurgency strikes. These tactics have reportedly led to
several successful raids on insurgent camps and the neutralization of
key figures in these groups.

Recognizing the complexities of counterinsurgency warfare, General
Musa has championed stronger interagency cooperation amongst various
branches of the Nigerian security apparatus. This integrated approach
ensures that military operations are supported and complemented by the
efforts of the police, intelligence services, and other security
agencies. Interagency collaboration has been instrumental in
disrupting the logistics networks of insurgents and curbing the flow
of arms and funding to their operations.’

Acknowledging the challenging circumstances under which Nigerian
troops operate; General Musa has been an advocate for the enhancement
of the welfare of military personnel. Improved welfare packages,
timely payment of allowances, and the provision of better living
conditions are reported to have boosted troop morale. High morale is
critical for the effective prosecution of any military campaign, and
by enhancing welfare, General Musa has reinforced the drive and
effectiveness of the troops involved in counterinsurgency operations.’

One of General Musa’s most notable achievements is the fortification
of the military’s counter-insurgency operations, particularly in the
fight against Boko Haram and other extremist groups. Under his
leadership, several successful operations have led to the recapture of
territories previously occupied by insurgents, the destruction of
their enclaves, and a considerable decimation of their ranks.

The successful rescue of the 330 Chibok schoolgirls, including women
and children, from the hands of Boko Haram terrorists in the Sambisa
forest recently is undoubtedly a commendable achievement for the Chief
of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa. This accomplishment
speaks volumes about his leadership skills, strategic planning, and
the effectiveness of the Nigerian military’s operations against Boko
Haram.

Rescuing such a large number of individuals from a notorious terrorist
group is no easy feat and requires meticulous planning and execution.
It also reflects the dedication and commitment of the Nigerian
military in ensuring the safety and security of its citizens,
particularly those who have fallen victim to Boko Haram.

General Christopher Gwabin Musa’s tenure as the Chief of Defence Staff
has been transformative for Nigeria’s military. Emphasizing strategic
reform, innovative practices, and international collaboration, he has
skilfully navigated the complex tapestry of Nigeria’s security
challenges. His dedication to human rights and effective
counter-insurgency operations have set a precedent for future
leadership.

All the above sterling qualities explain why General Christopher
Gwabin Musa is being honoured with the prestigious People’s Security
Monitor award of the ”MOST OUTSTANDING CHIEF OF DEFENCE STAFF IN
SECURITY MANAGEMENT (2024)’’

I thank you all for your attention.

Isiaka Mustapha

People’ Security Monitor