By Abubakar M. Haruna
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has called on Nigerians to use social media responsibly to promote public vigilance and intelligence sharing as part of efforts to combat extremism, terrorism, and insecurity across the country.
CDS Musa made this call while speaking in Maiduguri on Saturday at a one-day Multi-Sector Conference on Countering Extremist Ideology, Insurgency, and Terrorism which took place at the Mohammed Indimi hall University of Maiduguri.
He urged participants, especially students, to harness social media for public vigilance, knowledge, promoting peace, supporting security forces, and countering misinformation that fuels extremist narratives.
The CDS explained the role of citizens in national security, noting that security agencies cannot be everywhere at once.
He urged the public to be alert and share intelligence that could help prevent attacks and noted that Silence is no longer an option as the people are critical stakeholders in intelligence gathering and all it takes is one phone call to make the difference.
The Defence Chief also announced the formal inauguration of the Student Against Violent Extremism (SAVE 1 and 2) Task Forces, describing the initiative as a step toward building a network of young peace ambassadors dedicated to countering radicalisation at the grassroots.
With over 70% of the North-East’s population being youths, he said their role is vital in reclaiming communities from violence and promoting unity.
He then emphasized that students are the torchbearers of new values through peaceful advocacy, peer influence, research, and collaboration with security agencies, you can help shield the schools and communities from indoctrination, radicalism, and insurgency.
The Chife of Defense Staff, C J Musa commended President Bola Tinubu for his Renewed Hope Agenda, which he said is helping to restore normalcy and rebuild lives in the North-East.
He also praised the governors of Borno and Yobe states for their support of security operations in the region.
Despite recent deadly attacks in konduga and Damboa LGAs, General Musa expressed optimism about the future that was what prompted him to write the book entitled “Taking A Stand Against Insurgency, Terrorism and Banditry in Nigeria,” with his vast experience in the war front.
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