Tackling Insecurity: CDS Tasks Military on Intelligence Sharing, Inter-agency Collaboration
The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, yesterday, declared that intelligence sharing and collaboration of the joint task forces of the armed forces remained key to confronting security challenges facing the country.
Musa spoke at the opening of the Joint Task Force Commanders Conference 2023 in Abuja.
He said the conference themed: ‘Rejigging Defence Headquarters led Operations’ underscored the vital importance of collaboration and synergy among the various branches of the armed forces.
He noted that “at a time where the security landscape is constantly evolving, it has become imperative for them to adapt their strategies and tactics to effectively counter emerging threats by fostering a spirit of jointness, where they can capitalise on their collective strengths and capabilities to safeguard our nation.”
The defence chief said the conference provided a unique opportunity for them to share experiences, exchange ideas, and learn from one another by engaging in open and honest dialogue, identify best practices, address operational challenges, and forge a common vision that will guide their joint efforts going forward.
He affirmed that in the pursuit of national security, it was essential that they remained mindful of the dynamic security environment they operate in the face of a multitude of threats, ranging from insurgency, terrorism, and cybercrime to transnational organised crime, separatist movements, and inter-communal conflicts.
According to him, the challenges demanded comprehensive and multifaceted response that encompassed not only military action but also political, economic, and social dimensions.
He said the exchange of timely and accurate information was the lifeblood of successful operations.
“As we delve into the various sessions and workshops planned for this conference, I encourage you all to actively participate, ask questions, and contribute your perspectives.
“The diversity of backgrounds, experiences, and expertise among us is a tremendous asset that we must leverage to develop comprehensive and effective strategies.
“Let us foster an environment of collaboration, mutual respect, and collective responsibility, as we work towards a common goal of a safe and secure Nigeria,” he said.
He urged commanders to ensure that their personnel are equipped with the necessary skills, knowledge and resources to carry out their duties effectively.
He noted that continuous professional development, realistic and rigorous training exercises, and the cultivation of a learning culture are essential ingredients for success in this ever-evolving security landscape.
“Equally important is the need to engage with the communities we serve. The success of our operations depends not only on our military prowess but also on the trust and support of the local populace.
“We must strive to build strong relationships with the communities in which we operate, listening to their concerns, addressing their grievances, and providing them with the security and stability they deserve. By doing so, we can effectively isolate the adversaries and win the hearts and minds of the people,” he said.
He acknowledged the invaluable support received from international partners adding that the present challenges transcended national borders, stating that it was through strong partnerships and collaboration that such challenges could be effectively tackled.
“I express our gratitude to our international allies for their steadfast support, and I urge all commanders to further strengthen these relationships and explore opportunities for joint training, intelligence sharing, and capacity building,” he said.
He urged the commanders to be guided by the principles of professionalism, integrity, and respect for human rights as they discharge their duties.
The CDS charged them to be vigilant, resourceful and adaptive in the face of evolving threats and never lose sight of the fact that the ultimate goal remained a peaceful, prosperous, and united Nigeria.
Earlier, the Chief of Defence Training and Operation, Defence Headquarters, Major General Emeka Onumajuru, said successful stabilisation operations in different parts of the country and also the inherent challenges in some joint operation areas which needs to be addressed, informed the need for increased strategic guiding operation review and evaluation toward addressing prevailing national security in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda.
“The purpose of the conference is to provide an opportunity for detailed briefing to the CDS by the Joint Task Force Commanders and also a comprehensive evaluation of various on-going operations with a view to champion new course toward addressing national security challenges,” he said.
