CDS Urges Nigerians to View Military as Partners, Not Occupiers

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has called on Nigerians to regard the military as allies in national development rather than as a detached or occupying force.

Speaking on Thursday at the inaugural Defence Headquarters Civil-Military Relations Conference 2025 in Abuja, General Musa emphasized the need to strengthen trust between the armed forces and the civilian population. 

He noted that the military exists to serve and protect the people, not to alienate or intimidate them.

The conference has as its theme: “Winning Hearts and Minds: Non-Kinetic Approaches to National Security.”

According to him, historically the relationship between the military and the civilian population has, at times, been characterized by suspicion, fear, and mistrust.

“This unfortunate legacy has often hampered our ability to effectively work together, particularly in times of crisis or national emergency.

“The military has been seen not as a partner in progress, but as an occupying force, alien to the people it is meant to serve and protect,” he said.

The CDS noted that even though the perception had existed for a while, concerted efforts must be made from both the military and the larger society to change it.

According to him, the reality is that the Armed Forces of Nigeria are a constitutionally established institution, deeply rooted in democratic principles and accountable to the Nigerian people.

He said the conference was not a one-off event but a strategic initiative, conceptualised to become an annual platform for honest engagement, thoughtful reflection, and practical collaboration.

“The overarching goal is to win hearts and minds and shift from a purely kinetic, force-based approach to one that prioritizes trust-building, respect for human rights, and community partnership.

“It challenges us to think beyond weapons and warfare. It calls on us to invest in human security, to build resilient communities, and to reinforce the idea that every Nigerian, whether in uniform or not, has a stake in the peace and prosperity of our great nation,” he said.

NAN