Chief Of Air Staff Joins National Security Stakeholders As HMOD Appreciates Nigerians Support, Highlights Intensified Counter-Insurgency Operations

Chief Of Air Staff Joins National Security Stakeholders As HMOD Appreciates Nigerians Support, Highlights Intensified Counter-Insurgency Operations

The Honourable Minister of Defence (HMOD), General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), OFR, has commended Nigerians for their steadfast support to the Armed Forces as they sustain intensified counter-insurgency and internal security operations across the country. He made the remarks at the 2026 Armed Forces Celebrations and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) National Symposium and Lecture Series held on 12 January 2026 at the Sani Abacha Hall, National Defence College, Abuja. The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, attended the symposium alongside other national security stakeholders, underscoring the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to joint operations, strategic engagement, and the collective pursuit of national security objectives.

The Minister described public trust, cooperation, and collaboration as critical pillars underpinning ongoing efforts to restore peace, security, and stability nationwide. He noted that the sacrifices of the Armed Forces, particularly those of fallen heroes, are continually strengthened by the encouragement and resilience of Nigerians, stressing that national security remains a shared responsibility. He further explained that under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, defence and security initiatives have been strategically aligned with national development priorities. In this regard, he highlighted the revitalisation of indigenous defence production following the amendment of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Act, which has expanded local manufacturing capacity, encouraged private sector participation, and reduced reliance on foreign procurement.

General Musa also noted that recent investments in personnel training and welfare, alongside the deployment of Special Operations Forces, have enhanced operational effectiveness, precision, and agility. These efforts, complemented by strengthened regional and international partnerships, have led to intensified air, land, and maritime operations against terrorists and other criminal elements, improved national security, and better protection of critical national assets. The symposium, themed “Armed Forces and National Development,” featured the delivery of a theme paper by Lieutenant General Tukur Yusuf Buratai (Rtd), with Lieutenant General F Yahaya (Rtd), Air Vice Marshal EA Wonah (Rtd), and Rear Admiral SO Agada (Rtd) serving as discussants, while the session was moderated by Lieutenant General LO Adeosun (Rtd). The forum provided a platform for robust discourse on the evolving security environment and the expanding role of the Armed Forces in safeguarding democracy and driving national progress.