Defence Minister Calls for Whole-of-Society Approach to National Security
Oru Leonard
ABUJA, June 14, 2026 — Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has advocated a whole-of-society approach to addressing the country’s evolving security challenges, stressing that national security can no longer be achieved through military efforts alone.
Speaking at the Nigerian People’s Strategic Conference and Defence Exhibition 2026 held at the NAF Conference Centre in Abuja on Saturday, General Musa said effective collaboration among government institutions, the private sector, and local communities is essential to building a modern and resilient security ecosystem.
The Defence Minister noted that emerging threats such as terrorism, banditry, cybercrime, and infrastructure vandalism have become increasingly sophisticated, technology-driven, and often sustained by local support networks. He emphasized the need for citizens to play an active role by providing timely intelligence and denying criminal elements safe havens within communities.
According to him, a modern security framework should be built on three key pillars: strong government leadership and coordination, sustained investment in local defence innovation and industrial capacity, and strengthened community partnerships founded on trust and accountability.
General Musa also advocated for structured and regulated public-private partnerships to improve intelligence gathering, protect critical infrastructure, and enhance rapid response capabilities, while ensuring compliance with national laws and standards.
To strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture, the minister identified five priority areas, including the enhancement of legal and policy frameworks, establishment of secure information-sharing platforms, promotion of local defence manufacturing, investment in training and professional development, and deeper community engagement.
Also addressing participants at the conference, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, called for a comprehensive, non-kinetic, and community-driven strategy to combat insecurity. He highlighted the importance of dialogue, inclusive governance, and public-private collaboration, noting that the recent passage of the State Police Bill by the House represents a significant step toward decentralising Nigeria’s security structure.
Similarly, Osita Izunaso urged the adoption of a holistic and technology-driven approach to security, arguing that military action alone cannot guarantee sustainable peace. He stressed the need to tackle underlying causes of insecurity, including poverty, unemployment, and weak governance, while promoting reliable data systems, grassroots governance, and indigenous capacity development.
Reaffirming the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies to safeguarding the nation, General Musa maintained that sustainable security remains a collective responsibility.
He called on all stakeholders to work together in building a safer, more secure, and prosperous Nigeria.
