Gen. Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, has asked Nigerians to have faith in the Armed Forces members.
Musa stated that their honesty in safeguarding the country's democratic system and the security of people and property should not be questioned.
Recently, some individuals ambushed and killed 17 military personnel in the Okuama community in Delta State.
The deceased personnel were reportedly on a peacekeeping mission when some angry youths attacked and killed them on March 14.
Their bodies were laid to rest at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja on Wednesday.
However, at the closing ceremony of the Chief of Defence Staff Conference for Joint Task Force Commanders in Abuja on Thursday, Musa emphasized that the military exists for the people.
Musa stated, “Trust your military. They are here for Nigerians. We are committed to safeguarding democracy and we want to ensure that we give our best until Nigeria is fully safe and secure.”
Musa mentioned that the military was collaborating with the National Orientation Agency and other relevant stakeholders to change the citizens' perception of the military.
He stressed that this was necessary as the military required the citizens' support to restore peace in the country.
Musa said, “We are collaborating with relevant organizations like NOA to demonstrate to Nigerians that the Armed Forces are for Nigerians. We are here to protect Nigerians, but with the challenges we are facing, we cannot do it alone. We need the support of everyone.”
Advising the commanders, the CDS urged to restore and sustain the spirit of cooperation with other security agencies.
He said, “One of the key takeaways from our discussion has been the importance of cooperation and collaboration. As commanders, we must promote a culture of partnership and synergy among our forces and across theatres. Let us restore and sustain the spirit of jointness in our respective task forces and integrate it into our day-to-day operations.”
However, he cautioned the commanders against solely depending on foreign donors for their operations.
Musa said, “In the areas of funding as discussed during the last meeting of Ministers of Defence and Chief of Defence Staff of the Lake Chad basin, We must explore other avenues of sustaining our operations and not relying solely on international donors.”
