Nigerians Must Work as One Family to Defeat Insecurity, Preaches Defence Minister Musa

The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (retd.), has called on Nigerians to unite and work collectively as one family in order to overcome the country’s persistent security challenges, stressing that government and security agencies alone cannot win the fight against insecurity

Musa made the appeal amid ongoing concerns over terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes affecting several parts of the country. He said national security is a shared responsibility that requires the active cooperation of citizens, communities, traditional rulers and other stakeholders alongside the armed forces and security agencies. According to the Defence Minister, insecurity thrives where there is mistrust, disunity and lack of cooperation between the people and authorities. He noted that when citizens see themselves as part of one national family, they are more likely to share intelligence, support lawful security efforts and resist criminal elements within their communities. No single institution or service can tackle insecurity alone,” Musa said, emphasising the need for stronger collaboration among the military, police, intelligence agencies and local communities. He added that timely information from citizens remains one of the most effective tools in preventing attacks and dismantling criminal networks. The minister’s remarks come at a time when Nigeria is intensifying both local and international security cooperation to address emerging threats, including terrorist activities and cross-border crimes. Recent operations, including coordinated actions with foreign partners, reflect the government’s renewed focus on degrading armed groups and restoring peace in affected areas. Musa also urged Nigerians to avoid actions that undermine national unity, warning that ethnic, religious or political divisions only weaken collective efforts to secure the country. He reassured citizens that the federal government remains committed to equipping and supporting the armed forces while also pursuing non-military approaches such as community engagement and intelligence-led policing. As insecurity continues to affect livelihoods and national development, the Defence Minister said unity, vigilance and shared responsibility are critical if Nigeria is to achieve lasting peace and stability.