Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa says there is a need to reform the structure of the various operations in the Armed Forces to tackle security challenges facing the country.
General Musa made this known during the closing of the Joint Task Force Commanders Conference, 2023 in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
He said that throughout their time together, they have explored the theme “towards enhancing joint task force operations for national security” from various angles.
According to him, they have discussed the challenges they face, shared their experiences and lessons learned, and collectively charted a course for the future.
“I am confident that the knowledge gained, the relationships forged, and the ideas generated during this conference will significantly contribute to the effectiveness and success of our joint operations.
“One of the key takeaways from our discussions has been the importance of unity of effort.
“By breaking down barriers, sharing resources, and leveraging each other’s strengths, we can maximize our collective impact and achieve our shared objectives. Let us bring this spirit of jointness back to our respective task forces and integrate it into our daily operations,“ he said.
According to him, other challenges like inadequate manpower, lack of support weapons, gun trucks and drones, and inadequate tracking equipment and the teams to operate them have been noted, adding that the issue of inadequate personal rifles will also be addressed.
He noted that another crucial aspect that emerged from their deliberations is the need for innovation and adaptability.
“The security landscape is ever-evolving, and we must continuously assess and improve our strategies, tactics, and capabilities to effectively counter emerging threats.
‘Let us encourage and empower our personnel to think creatively, to challenge conventional wisdom, and to embrace change as we strive for continuous improvement.
“As commanders, they have a responsibility to ensure their well-being, provide them with the necessary resources and support, and create an environment that nurtures their growth and development.
“Let us invest in their training, mentorship, and career progression, recognizing that their success is intricately tied to the success of our joint operations,” he added.
He also emphasized the importance of building and maintaining strong relationships with the communities they serve.
According to him, the trust and support of the local population are critical in their efforts to counter-insurgency, terrorism, and other security challenges.
“We must continue to engage with community leaders, religious leaders, and other stakeholders, listening to their concerns, addressing their grievances, and involving them in decision-making. By doing so, we can gain valuable insights, foster cooperation, and build resilient communities that are actively involved in securing their futures.
“The challenges we face are not confined within our borders, and it is through strong partnerships and collaboration that we can effectively address them. I extend my deepest appreciation to our international allies for their unwavering solidarity and assistance. Let us continue to strengthen these relationships, explore opportunities for joint exercises and capacity building, and learn from the experiences of our global counterparts.
“As we return to our respective units/theatre commands, let us carry with us the knowledge, insights, and connections we have gained during this conference. Let us implement the lessons learned and the best practices shared. Let us use the momentum generated here to drive positive change and improve the effectiveness of our joint operations.
“In conclusion, let us leave this conference with a renewed sense of purpose, a shared vision for the future, and a commitment to excellence. Let us be bold, innovative, and proactive in our approach to national security,“ he added.
