CDS to Nigerians: See military as partners not occupying force

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, has urged Nigerians to see the military as a partner in progress and not an occupying force, alien to the people it is meant to serve and protect.

Musa stated this at the maiden Defence Headquarters Civil-Military Relations Conference 2025 on Thursday in Abuja.

The conference has as its theme: “Winning Hearts and Minds: Non-Kinetic Approaches to National Security.”

According to him, historically the relationship between the military and the civilian population has, at times, been characterized by suspicion, fear, and mistrust.

“This unfortunate legacy has often hampered our ability to effectively work together, particularly in times of crisis or national emergency.

“The military has been seen not as a partner in progress, but as an occupying force, alien to the people it is meant to serve and protect,” he said.

The CDS noted that even though the perception had existed for a while, concerted efforts must be made from both the military and the larger society to change it.

According to him, the reality is that the Armed Forces of Nigeria are a constitutionally established institution, deeply rooted in democratic principles and accountable to the Nigerian people.

He said the conference was not a one-off event but a strategic initiative, conceptualised to become an annual platform for honest engagement, thoughtful reflection, and practical collaboration.

“The overarching goal is to win hearts and minds and shift from a purely kinetic, force-based approach to one that prioritizes trust-building, respect for human rights, and community partnership.

“It challenges us to think beyond weapons and warfare. It calls on us to invest in human security, to build resilient communities, and to reinforce the idea that every Nigerian, whether in uniform or not, has a stake in the peace and prosperity of our great nation,” he said.

Earlier, the Chief of Defence Civil-Military Relations at the Defence Headquarters, Rear Adm. Olusanya Bankole, said the event marked a significant milestone in the military’s ongoing commitment towards a “people-centric” concept championed by the Chief of Defence Staff.

Bankole said the conference was convened to help change negative narratives about the Nigerian armed forces.

He added that it was an avenue to advance non-kinetic strategies and tools of peace, dialogue, outreach, and engagements that will restore trust and rebuild the vital bridge between the military and the civilians we are sworn to serve.