CDS warns citizens: Avoid trading with terrorists, bandits

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS),General Christopher Musa, on Wednesday, has issued a stern warning to citizens living in areas affected by insecurity, to stop trading with terrorists and bandits.

As gathered by the Diaspora Digital Media (DDM), Musa issued the warning during a visit to the Defence Headquarters Medical Centre, where he interacted with patients as part of the Christmas celebrations.

He cautioned against any form of trading or transactions with terrorists, bandits, and other non-state actors.

He emphasized that these behaviors undermine the military and security agencies’ efforts to combat insecurity in the nation.

Musa stated, “I want to also call on those few ones who think they are making money by trading with those terrorists and bandits.

“Those terrorists and bandits have no respect for anybody.”

He warned that engaging with these groups could lead to severe consequences for individuals and their families.

The CDS added, “once you think you are trading with them, they are going to come after you.”

He further explained that if individuals do not support or engage with these groups, it could significantly weaken their operations.

“If we do not encourage them, we do not trade with them, they will not survive.

“That is the important thing we are saying,” he asserted.

“The mistakes that were made in the past when this thing (terrorism/banditry) started was that we did not nip it in the bud,” the CDS noted.

“This failure allowed terrorism to escalate to its current level of threat.

Musa assured the public that the military is committed to restoring peace in Nigeria.

He highlighted the progress made in improving the security situation, stating, “I think since we started to where we are today, there is a remarkable improvement in the security situation.”

Musa emphasized the importance of continued cooperation from citizens in achieving lasting peace.

The CDS stressed that achieving peace is not an automatic process.

He stated the need for collective effort, saying “we are going to put every effort to ensure that we continue to live in peace.”

He said “God is always with us.

“We are going to make sure that Nigeria is better for everyone.”

About the Ministry of Defence

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) was established on October 1, 1958.

Its primary responsibility is to oversee the country’s defense operations through the Armed Forces.

The MOD supervises various branches, including the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

It also manages Tri-Services Institutions and parastatals, ensuring a cohesive defense strategy.

Vision

The MOD envisions a military sector equipped to face modern challenges.

The vision includes a military with advanced equipment and personnel trained in all facets of military operations.

Goal

The goal is to create a professional, compact, and mobile force.

Ultimately, the MOD aims for the military to fulfill its constitutional duties while effectively participating in international peacekeeping efforts.

Mission

The mission of the MOD focuses on providing administrative and support services to the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

It aims to do so in a timely and efficient manner.

The ministry’s objective is to help the Armed Forces build and maintain a modern, strong, and professional military.

Additionally, the MOD emphasizes the protection of the Nigerian constitution.

It also seeks to contribute to global peacekeeping and peace-making initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

The MOD plays a crucial role in national security.

It ensures the Armed Forces are prepared to respond to various threats.

These include conventional warfare, insurgency, and other security challenges.

The ministry’s leadership coordinates training, resource allocation, and operational planning across military branches.

Moreover, the MOD focuses on modernization.

It advocates for the acquisition of new technologies and equipment.

It also ensures that the Armed Forces remain effective in a rapidly changing global landscape.

Organizational Structure

The MOD’s organizational structure supports its mission and vision.

It consists of various departments and agencies that handle specific aspects of defense.

The ministry engages with civilian agencies and international partners.

Training and Development

The ministry prioritizes the professional development of military personnel.

It implements comprehensive training programs to ensure soldiers are well-prepared for their duties.

These programs cover various aspects, including tactical operations, leadership, and technical skills.

It promotes participation in international training exercises and workshops.

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