Security forces support remains critical to Nigeria’s efforts to overcome insecurity, Defence Minister General Christopher Musa (rtd) has said. He urged citizens to cooperate with the military and other security agencies, stressing that lasting peace can only be achieved through collective action and national unity.
Musa spoke during the June 12, 2026 edition of The Platform held in Lagos. Addressing participants, he rejected the notion that security personnel should be viewed as adversaries, insisting that members of the armed forces and other agencies are also affected by the violence and instability confronting the country.
According to the Defence Minister, security forces support should be strengthened because personnel routinely make sacrifices to protect lives and communities. He noted that many officers have paid a heavy price while carrying out their duties in conflict zones across the country.
“The security forces are not the enemies of the state. In fact, what I always say is that we are all victims,” Musa said.
Reflecting on his experience as commander of Operation Hadin Kai, he described some of the emotional and human costs associated with military operations. Musa served as theatre commander for 19 months and said one of the most difficult responsibilities was meeting families of personnel who lost their lives during service.
“As a commander, I had the privilege of being the commander in the theater Operation Hadin Kai for 19 months, and the worst thing that could ever happen to you is having to meet the families of those who have passed on, who were killed, to explain to them what happened to their children, to their wards,” he stated.
The Defence Minister also highlighted the experiences of personnel who sustained life-changing injuries during operations. He referenced incidents involving Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), which have left some service members with amputations and permanent disabilities.
Musa argued that these realities demonstrate why security forces support should extend beyond words of appreciation. He called for continued investment in the welfare, equipment, and operational needs of personnel working to safeguard the country.
“So, I want to appeal to Nigerians that as long as these individuals are sacrificing themselves, we have a country to protect. We must honour them, we must support them, we must give them everything that will keep them going,” he said.
He emphasized that security challenges cannot be addressed by government institutions alone. Citizens, communities, and stakeholders must actively collaborate with security agencies through information sharing, vigilance, and lawful cooperation.
The minister described the fight against insecurity as a shared national responsibility. According to him, stronger partnerships between the public and security institutions can improve operational outcomes and enhance the protection of vulnerable communities.
For businesses and residents across Nigeria, improved security remains essential to economic growth, investment, and social stability. Analysts note that safer communities can encourage entrepreneurship, strengthen local economies, and improve quality of life.
Musa expressed confidence that greater public cooperation would help security agencies achieve more significant results. He maintained that with stronger security forces support and sustained citizen engagement, Nigeria can make meaningful progress in confronting insecurity and protecting lives nationwide.
