Table of Contents
- Warning Against Threats to Sovereignty
- Commitment to Territorial Integrity
- Role of Traditional Rulers
- Building Peace Through Collaboration
- Military Action Against Criminals
- Sultan's Remarks on Insecurity
The Chief of Defence Staff, CDS, Gen. Christopher Musa, has cautioned that anyone undermining Nigeria’s sovereignty and unity will be regarded as an enemy of the state.
Musa delivered this warning on Tuesday in Birnin Kebbi during the General Assembly of the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council, NTRC, which was themed “Kebbi 2025: Strengthening Community Collaboration for Lasting Peace and Security in Northern Nigeria.”
He reiterated the Armed Forces of Nigeria's dedication to safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity and urged citizens to support initiatives aimed at fostering peace and stability.
“Anyone found engaging in activities detrimental to the government and the sovereignty of Nigeria is an enemy of the state, and we will pursue such individuals,” he declared.
Musa praised the Sultan of Sokoto and other traditional rulers for their contributions to promoting peace and unity, describing them as “custodians of values and morality” who play a vital role in maintaining stability throughout the country.
He emphasized that peace cannot be imposed; it must be cultivated through trust, dialogue, and collaboration among security agencies, traditional institutions, and communities.
The CDS also instructed members of the armed forces to take decisive action against criminals threatening lives and property, assuring that the military remains committed to upholding democracy with the backing of President Bola Tinubu.
In his comments, the Sultan of Sokoto and Chairman of the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, indicated that the meeting aimed to address insecurity in the North.
He mentioned that the council would present its communiqué to northern governors at their upcoming meeting in Kaduna and urged Nigerians to support, rather than criticize, the military.
“Without the military, we wouldn’t be where we are today. There are challenges and shortcomings, and that’s why we are here, to seek solutions,” the Sultan remarked.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main message from Gen. Christopher Musa regarding Nigeria's sovereignty?
Gen. Christopher Musa has warned that anyone undermining Nigeria’s sovereignty will be considered an enemy of the state and pursued accordingly.
What role do traditional rulers play in promoting peace according to Gen. Musa?
Gen. Musa commended traditional rulers, including the Sultan of Sokoto, for their crucial role in promoting peace and unity, referring to them as custodians of values and morality.
What did the Sultan of Sokoto say about the military's role?
The Sultan of Sokoto emphasized that without the military, the current state of security in Nigeria would be significantly worse, acknowledging both the challenges and the need for support rather than criticism of the military.