CDS Lauds Northern Monarchs’ Role in Intelligence, Conflict Resolution
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has commended Northern traditional rulers for their vital role in sustaining peace and stability through intelligence gathering, conflict resolution, and community mediation.
General Musa, who gave the commendation during the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council General Assembly in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, said the contribution of traditional institutions remained central to Nigeria’s internal security architecture.
In a goodwill message to the council chaired by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Defence Chief described the theme of the assembly — “Strengthening Community Collaboration for Lasting Peace and Security in Northern Nigeria” — as timely and essential in confronting the current security realities in the region.
He said, “Traditional rulers are not just custodians of culture and morality, but also the first point of contact between the government and the people. Their support has been instrumental to the successes of the Armed Forces in various theatres of operation.”
General Musa stressed that peace and stability cannot be imposed by force but must be nurtured through trust, dialogue, and community collaboration. He called for a “whole-of-society” approach that unites traditional institutions, youth and women groups, religious leaders, and government agencies in promoting unity, tolerance, and understanding.
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The Defence Chief assured the council of the Armed Forces’ unwavering commitment to defending the nation’s territorial integrity and protecting citizens against all forms of threats. He also expressed appreciation for the continuous cooperation of traditional rulers in intelligence-sharing and early warning systems that help security agencies prevent crises before they escalate.
Musa said, “The Northern Traditional Rulers Council has remained a strong pillar in promoting peace and communal cohesion. Your collaboration has greatly supported our operational successes and national stability efforts.”
Earlier in his courtesy visit to the Kebbi State Government House, the CDS commended Governor Nasir Idris for the state’s ongoing developmental strides and consistent support for the military and other security agencies. He noted that Kebbi’s partnership with the Armed Forces reflects the spirit of collective responsibility needed to restore peace across the North-West and the country at large.
Governor Idris, in response, praised the Nigerian Armed Forces for their resilience and sacrifice in keeping the state and the nation secure. He said the state government recently distributed operational vehicles and logistics support to security agencies to boost their effectiveness, while also acknowledging General Musa’s leadership style as “exemplary and inspiring.”
Meanwhile, General Musa is expected to attend the final match of the ongoing General Christopher Musa Peace and Unity Cup 2025 at the FIFA Goal Project Stadium in Birnin Kebbi. The football tournament, which brings together youth from Kebbi, Zamfara, and Sokoto States, aims to promote peace, unity, and social cohesion through sports.
The CDS reaffirmed his optimism that with the sustained partnership between the Armed Forces, traditional institutions, and the public, peace and normalcy will soon return to every part of Northern Nigeria.
By PRNigeria
