Defence Minister Calls for Community-Led Security Framework
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has called for a unified whole-of-society approach to addressing Nigeria’s evolving security challenges, stressing that sustainable national security can no longer be achieved through military efforts alone.
Speaking at the Nigerian People’s Strategic Conference and Defence Exhibition 2026 held on Saturday at the Nigerian Air Force Conference Centre in Abuja, the minister said effective security management requires strong collaboration among government institutions, the private sector and local communities.
According to him, contemporary security threats such as terrorism, banditry, cybercrime and infrastructure vandalism have become increasingly complex, technology-driven and often sustained by local support networks.
General Musa noted that citizens play a critical role in national security through the provision of timely intelligence and by denying criminal elements safe havens within communities.
He outlined three key pillars for building a modern security ecosystem: effective government leadership and coordination, sustained investment in local defence innovation and industrial capacity, and strengthened community partnerships founded on trust and accountability.
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The minister also advocated structured and regulated public-private partnerships to improve intelligence gathering, protect critical national infrastructure and enhance rapid response capabilities, while ensuring compliance with national laws and regulatory standards.
To advance the country’s security objectives, he identified five priority areas, including strengthening legal and policy frameworks, establishing secure information-sharing platforms, promoting local defence manufacturing, investing in training and professional development, and deepening community engagement.
Also speaking at the conference, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, called for a comprehensive, non-kinetic and community-driven strategy to combat insecurity.
Kalu emphasised the importance of dialogue, inclusive governance and public-private collaboration, describing the recent passage of the State Police Bill by the House of Representatives as a significant step towards decentralising Nigeria’s security architecture.
Similarly, Senator Osita Izunaso advocated a holistic and technology-driven approach to security, arguing that military operations alone cannot deliver lasting peace.
He stressed the need to address the underlying causes of insecurity, including poverty, unemployment and weak governance, while highlighting the importance of reliable data, grassroots governance and indigenous capacity development.
Reaffirming the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies to protecting the country, General Musa said sustainable security remains a collective responsibility.
He urged all stakeholders to work together towards building a safer, more resilient and prosperous Nigeria.Alternative Headlines:
By PRNigeria
