Nigeria has reiterated the need for stronger regional and continental unity in tackling Africa’s growing security challenges, urging nations to work collectively for peace and stability.
Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, made the call while speaking to journalists ahead of the maiden African Chiefs of Defence Staff Conference, scheduled to take place in Abuja from August 25 to 27, 2025.
The conference, themed “Combating Contemporary Threats to Regional Peace and Security in Africa: The Role of Strategic Defence Collaboration”, will gather defence chiefs from across the continent to explore African-led solutions to emerging threats.
General Musa underscored Nigeria’s long-standing leadership in peacekeeping and conflict resolution efforts across Africa, stressing the importance of solidarity in addressing escalating insecurity. He said the Abuja meeting would provide a platform to strengthen collective strategies and devise sustainable solutions.
“The collaboration reflects the strong support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian people, recognising that the fight against asymmetric warfare goes beyond military action. Achieving lasting peace requires the involvement of government, civil society, and all stakeholders,” he stated.
According to him, the initiative will enhance intelligence-sharing, joint training, and coordinated operations among African states, while reinforcing security frameworks of the African Union, including the ECOWAS Standby Force. He added that the approach would also tap into private sector innovation to improve defence strategies.
“Ultimately, Nigeria’s goal is to provide a platform where Africans can discuss and resolve their own problems, anchored on the principle that charity begins at home,” General Musa emphasised.
Organisers confirmed that all 54 African nations have been invited to the summit, with over 90 per cent already committing to attend.
