The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has declared that the success of modern warfare is no longer determined by firepower alone but by the military’s ability to protect civilians, foster peace, and promote national development.
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He made this known on Monday while declaring open a four-day Human Security and Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) workshop at the headquarters of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) in Maiduguri, Borno State.
The workshop, jointly organised by the Defence Headquarters and the British Defence Staff, is designed to train officers on integrating human security and community engagement into military operations, particularly in conflict-affected areas.
According to him, “In a world where conflict and tension often cloud our perspectives, embracing non-kinetic strategies allows us to navigate conflicts with dignity, fostering dialogue and collaboration”.
He explained that the changing nature of Nigeria’s security threats—ranging from insurgency and banditry to communal clashes—demands a more balanced approach that combines kinetic operations with civilian-centred interventions.
“The role of human security and civil-military cooperation in national development is to bridge the gap between military efforts and the civilian aspiration for peace and stability,” the Defence Chief stated.
He commended the British High Commission for its consistent support to the Nigerian Armed Forces, describing the collaboration as critical to ongoing reforms in military training and operations.
He said the workshop will offer practical tools to help officers minimise the negative impact of military operations on civilian populations and improve cooperation with host communities.
“This training will equip participants with the knowledge needed to mitigate the effects of military presence on civilian life while enhancing trust and collaboration with the people,” he said.
General Musa stressed that the military alone cannot solve Nigeria’s security problems, noting that a “whole-of-society” approach involving local communities, institutions, and stakeholders is essential for lasting peace.
“The success of modern military operations depends not only on tactical victories but also on our ability to build resilience and promote development in areas affected by conflict,” he noted.
The four-day training, which continues till July 31, features practical exercises, strategic discussions, and case studies on effective civil-military relations, particularly in counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency contexts.
Participants include senior officers from various military formations, as well as resource persons and facilitators drawn from both Nigerian and international organisations.
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