Hunger, Poverty Now Major Security Threats, Not Just Social Issues – CDS Warns

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has warned that hunger and poverty have escalated beyond social issues, now posing serious threats to national security.

The CDS, represented by the Chief of Defence Training, Rear Adm, Ibrahim Shetimma, stated this at opening of the 14^th National Security Seminar organised by the Alumni Association of the National Defence College (AANDEC), on Monday in Abuja.

“Insecurity today is not only defined by weapons but also by economic deprivation, food insecurity, and social dislocation.

“Hunger and poverty are no longer mere social challenges – they have become national security threats.

“The North Central region, particularly Benue once considered Nigeria’s food basket is a clear example of how banditry, displacement, and farmer-herder conflicts have devastated agricultural productivity,’’ he said.

Musa highlighted that the disruption of farming communities and the unlawful takeover of farmlands have fueled food inflation, forced displacement, and widespread migration, ultimately threatening economic stability and national unity.