Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to regional and continental security, urging African nations to unite in tackling shared threats and promoting peace.
Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, made the call while briefing journalists on the forthcoming maiden African Chiefs of Defence Staff Conference in Abuja, scheduled for 25–27 August 2025.
The conference, themed “Combating Contemporary Threats to Regional Peace and Security in Africa: The Role of Strategic Defence Collaboration”, will gather defence chiefs from across the continent to develop African-led solutions to pressing security challenges.
General Musa said Nigeria is spearheading efforts to strengthen collaboration among African military leaders, noting the country’s track record in restoring peace and stability across the continent, supporting nations in conflict, and contributing to international peacekeeping.
With security threats rising across Africa, he stressed the need for solidarity among nations to collectively identify challenges and propose sustainable responses.
“The collaboration is seen as a reflection of the strong support from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian people, recognising that the fight against asymmetric warfare requires more than just military action. The leadership calls for whole-of-government and whole-of-society involvement to ensure lasting peace and security,” he said.
He added that “strategically, the initiative seeks to enhance intelligence-sharing, joint training, and coordinated operations among African countries.”
The Defence Chief further explained that the conference will strengthen the African Union’s peace and security mechanisms, such as the ECOWAS Standby Force, while integrating private sector innovation into defence strategies.
“Ultimately, Nigeria’s goal is to establish a platform where Africans can discuss and solve their own problems, reinforcing the principle that charity begins at home,” he stressed.
According to organisers, all 54 African countries have been invited to the summit, with over 90 per cent confirming attendance.
PIAK