Civil-Military Relations Key to National Security, Good Governance — Ex-CDS Irabor
Former Chief of Defence Staff, General Leo Irabor, has called for stronger civil-military relations anchored on professionalism, mutual respect, effective communication and institutional accountability to improve governance and national security in Nigeria.
Irabor made the call on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, while delivering the 24th Convocation Lecture of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in honour of cadets of the 73 Regular Course and postgraduate students at the Ribadu Auditorium, Afaka, Kaduna.
In his lecture titled, “Civil-Military Relations in Nigeria: Governance and National Security,” the former defence chief examined the relationship between civil authorities and the military within Nigeria’s democratic framework and identified measures for addressing challenges affecting effective civil-military relations.
He stressed that a healthy civil-military relationship requires a clear understanding of the respective constitutional roles and responsibilities of the Armed Forces and civil authorities.
Irabor also emphasised adherence to constitutional principles and respect for democratic institutions as critical to sustaining national stability and strengthening public confidence in the Armed Forces.
According to him, professionalism and institutional accountability remain key pillars of effective civil-military relations, while mutual respect and clear communication between the military and civil authorities would promote national cohesion and enhance public trust.
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He added that improved relations between the military and civilian authorities would strengthen the Armed Forces’ effectiveness in protecting Nigeria’s territorial integrity and democratic institutions.
The former CDS further urged officer cadets and postgraduate students of the NDA to understand the broader responsibilities of military leadership within a democratic society.
He challenged them to develop the intellectual capacity, professional discipline and strategic understanding required to contribute meaningfully to national development and security.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Commandant of the NDA, Major General Oluyemi Thomas Olatoye, acknowledged the contributions of Irabor, senior military officers, as well as the Academy’s academic and non-academic staff to the success of the institution.
Olatoye reaffirmed the NDA’s commitment to producing professionally competent officers with the leadership skills and intellectual capacity required to operate effectively within Nigeria’s democratic system.
He said a proper understanding of the constitutional roles of the Armed Forces, democratic institutions and other stakeholders was fundamental to effective governance and national security.
The Commandant expressed confidence that the convocation lecture would provide participants with valuable insights into the complexities of civil-military relations and their implications for Nigeria’s governance and security.
The event was attended by the Deputy Commandant, Provost, principal staff officers and other invited guests.
The lecture ended with the presentation of souvenirs to the guest speaker and a group photograph.
By PRNigeria
