Nigeria’s Defence Minister, Christopher Musa, has called on Nigerians to rally behind the country’s security agencies, stressing that military personnel and civilians alike are victims of the insecurity affecting various parts of the nation.
Speaking during the June 12, 2026 edition of The Platform in Lagos, Musa rejected the notion that security operatives should be viewed as adversaries, insisting that they remain committed to protecting lives and preserving the country’s stability despite the risks they face daily.
The Defence Minister said the ongoing fight against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats requires collective support from citizens, communities and government institutions.
“The security forces are not the enemies of the state. In fact, what I always say is that we are all victims,” he stated.
Drawing from his experience as the former commander of Operation Hadin Kai in the North-East, Musa recounted some of the painful realities faced by military personnel and their families during the battle against insurgency.
He explained that one of the most difficult aspects of military leadership was having to meet families of fallen soldiers and explain the circumstances surrounding the deaths of their loved ones.
According to him, such encounters leave lasting emotional scars on commanders and reinforce the sacrifices made by troops serving on the frontlines.
“The worst thing that could ever happen to you is having to meet the families of those who have passed on, who were killed, to explain to them what happened to their children, to their wards,” he said.
Musa also spoke about soldiers who have sustained life-changing injuries while carrying out their duties, particularly those affected by improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
He noted that many personnel have lost limbs and suffered severe injuries after their vehicles encountered explosive devices planted by insurgents.
The Defence Minister said these sacrifices underscore the need for greater appreciation and support for members of the armed forces and other security agencies.
“We must honour them, we must support them, we must give them everything that will keep them going,” he said.
Musa maintained that security challenges cannot be solved by military action alone, stressing that citizens have an important role to play in supporting efforts to restore peace and stability.
He described security as a shared responsibility, adding that meaningful progress can only be achieved through cooperation between the public and security institutions.
According to him, intelligence sharing, community engagement and public trust remain essential tools in combating criminal activities across the country.
The Defence Minister expressed confidence that stronger collaboration between citizens and security agencies would enhance the effectiveness of ongoing operations and improve national security outcomes.
“Together wIth the support of citizens, so much can be achieved, and I can assure you that,” he added.
His remarks formed part of wider discussions at The Platform on governance, democracy, national development and the security challenges confronting Nigeria.
The event, held annually on Democracy Day, brought together public officials, policymakers, civil society leaders and citizens to examine key national issues and discuss possible solutions.
Musa’s comments come at a time when concerns over insecurity remain high in several parts of the country, with authorities continuing efforts to combat terrorism, kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes.
The Defence Minister reiterated that while security forces remain committed to protecting the nation, public cooperation and support are indispensable in achieving lasting peace and security.
