CDS Flags Off Student Task Forces to Tackle Extremism in North-East
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has flagged off two student-led task forces Students Against Violent Extremism (SAVE 1 and SAVE 2)—as part of efforts to deepen grassroots engagement in the fight against terrorism and radicalisation in Nigeria’s North-East.
Brigadier General Tukur Gusau Director, Defence Information confirmed this in a statement today in Abuja.
He said the initiative was launched on Friday, June 28, 2025, during a high-level multi-sectoral conference in Maiduguri, Borno State, focused on countering extremist ideologies, insurgency, and terrorism.
The forum was organised by the Kaltum Foundation for Peace, in collaboration with the Network of Civil Society Organisations and the Borno State Youth Parliament.
Addressing the gathering of students, traditional leaders, civil society groups, and security stakeholders, General Musa described his return to Maiduguri as a “profound homecoming,” reflecting on his past leadership of Operation LAFIYA DOLE and Operation HADIN KAI.
He praised the resilience of the region’s people and urged the youth to take the lead in building peaceful communities.
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“You are the torchbearers of new values,” General Musa said. “Silence is no longer an option. The evil ignored today may haunt us tomorrow.” He emphasized the role of students and schools in leading non-kinetic strategies such as responsible social media use, peer advocacy, and vigilance in the face of suspicious activity.
The SAVE task forces will serve as frontline peer support units to identify vulnerable individuals, promote inclusive peace messaging, and reinforce community resilience against extremist recruitment.
The CDS also commended participants for reviewing his book, Taking Stand Against Insurgency, Terrorism and Banditry: Admonition to Nigerian Youth, and invited continued feedback to strengthen national counter-insurgency strategies. He stressed the need for innovation and adaptability to confront evolving security threats.
General Musa extended appreciation to the Governors of Borno and Yobe States and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for their support of stabilisation and recovery efforts under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He also condemned the recent suicide bomb attacks in the region, offering sympathy to affected families and communities.
The conference ended with a renewed commitment to youth-led peacebuilding, as participants resolved to make the North-East not just a zone of recovery—but a model of resilience.
By PRNigeria
