- Musa highlighted that despite Nigeria ranking sixth in the global terrorism index, there have been significant improvements in national security.
- He added that farmers are returning to their lands, and peace is gradually being restored, indicating progress in Nigeria’s fight against insecurity.
The Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, has stated that Nigeria could suffer significant losses if Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso fail to restore democracy.
For several years, these three West African nations have been governed by military regimes, leading them to withdraw from ECOWAS and establish the Alliance of Sahel States.
During an interview on Arise Television’s Prime Time on Friday, Musa explained that the leadership crisis in these nations could directly affect Nigeria’s stability.
“Like I said, we have issues of poverty in West Africa, a lot of issues with governance, challenges with Niger Republic, Mali, and Burkina Faso.”
“They are taking a lot of heat, and that is because the areas are large, there is a lot of poverty within those areas.”
“Climate change is one major issue on ground, and lack of political will is causing these issues,” Musa said.
“And those are the things trying to pour into Nigeria. Whatever effort we are making, as long as these things are there, it is going to be a challenge.”
“The truth about it is that, especially for these three countries, it is important that they get their leadership right, and then they are able to do a lot.”
“And, that is why for us in Nigeria, we have a lot to lose if they do not get it right —they must have a democratic system that will be able to assist them in taking decisions that will help the country.”
Musa mentioned that the federal government is working towards strengthening border security to prevent potential threats from the three neighbouring countries.
While addressing Nigeria’s ranking in the global terrorism index, he acknowledged progress in national security despite the country being placed sixth on the list.
“And that is why the federal government is moving up, to make sure that we have a very wonderful border management system because we have to protect our borders,” he said.
“I will not speak for West Africa; I will speak for Nigeria. In 2024, we had the least number of attacks within the country. Things are really improving.”
“Yes, we still have isolated issues. But, I can tell you the troops are really putting in their best.”
“If you move around the country, you would see that a lot of things have improved; farmers are going back to their farms, there is a lot of peace.”
“Nigerians know that things are really improving; we need to join hands together to do more.”
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