CDS reaffirms military’s commitment to restoring peace in Northern Nigeria
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has restated the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) to restoring peace and enhancing security in Northern Nigeria.
He made this known on Tuesday, while speaking to leaders, scholars, and civil society representatives during a two-day interactive session on government–citizens engagement organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation in Kaduna.
He noted the establishment of the Joint Doctrine and Warfare Centre in Abuja and the creation of a Department of Training at Defence Headquarters, both of which have enhanced personnel readiness. Musa also revealed that over 800 Special Forces operatives have graduated, with many more undergoing training in Jaji and Nasarawa to tackle asymmetric threats in the North.
The CDS disclosed the restructuring of operations in the North-West into Operation FANSAN YAMMA, alongside the creation of Defence Special Forces Brigades in Kaduna and Niger States. The expansion of Forward Operating Bases and increased deployment of high-readiness units have helped regain control in volatile regions.
He further stated that more than 3,000 terrorists and bandits have been neutralized, over 120,000 insurgents have surrendered, and over 2,000 kidnapped victims have been rescued in the last two years. Additionally, the military recovered over 2,300 arms and 72,000 rounds of ammunition during its operations.
General Musa also emphasised non-combat initiatives, including community sports competitions, reorientation campaigns, and engagements with traditional leaders and governors, which have fostered trust and supported the return of displaced persons to their communities.
He highlighted economic empowerment efforts such as the establishment of ranches, schools, and ICT-based training centres in the North-East and North-West. He also commended local defence institutions like the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) and AFIT for boosting logistics and innovation.
On regional cooperation, Musa recalled his 2024 visit to Niger Republic for cross-border security talks and announced Nigeria’s hosting of the African Chiefs of Defence Conference in Abuja from August 25 to 27, 2025, aimed at strengthening continental dialogue and security collaboration.
