The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has underscored the critical role hunger and poverty play in fueling Nigeria’s persistent security challenges, describing them as deeply embedded social issues that must be addressed through a holistic national approach.
Speaking in Abuja on Monday at the 14th National Security Seminar hosted by the Alumni Association of the National Defence College, General Musa, who was represented by the Chief of Defence Training at the Defence Headquarters, Rear Admiral Ibrahim Shetimma, emphasized the need for broad-based efforts that go beyond conventional security responses.
According to the Defence Chief, the concept of national insecurity has evolved and can no longer be viewed only through the lens of armed conflict or terrorism. He argued that economic and social deprivation—particularly food insecurity, poverty, and youth disempowerment—are now at the heart of Nigeria’s instability.
“Insecurity is no longer defined solely on the presence of arms and ammunition, but is now also rooted in economic deprivation, food insecurity, social dislocation,” Musa noted.
He called for immediate and collaborative efforts to tackle these root causes, stressing the importance of empowering young Nigerians, strengthening local livelihoods, promoting mutual tolerance, and attracting private investment as key strategies to build a peaceful and resilient society.
Rear Admiral Shetimma, relaying Musa’s message, further encouraged Nigerians to be proactive by reporting any suspicious movements or activities, noting that early warning systems and community engagement are vital components of national defence.
Echoing this view, the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, also spoke at the seminar and advocated for human-centered security solutions. He pointed out that addressing the deep-seated causes of unrest—such as unemployment, poverty, and marginalization—must become central to Nigeria’s peace-building strategy.
Badaru insisted that military action alone cannot deliver lasting peace, highlighting the need for policies and programs that foster inclusion and create opportunities for all segments of society, especially those who are most vulnerable.
The national security seminar, themed “Combating Hunger and Poverty for Sustainable Peace and Development in Nigeria,” was organized in partnership with the Office of the National Security Adviser and the National Defence College. It brought together key stakeholders from the military, government, civil society, and academia to examine how socio-economic challenges intersect with peace and development in the country.
What you should know
General Christopher Musa believes that tackling hunger and poverty is key to solving Nigeria’s security crisis. At a major national seminar, he urged a shift in focus from armed conflict to root causes like economic deprivation, youth disempowerment, and food insecurity, while also encouraging more proactive citizen engagement in preventing threats.
