By Nkechi Eze
As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen national security and support socioeconomic development, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, on Thursday, July 11, 2025, embarked on an operational visit to Adamawa State, where he also paid a courtesy call on the Executive Governor, His Excellency Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri.
The visit, according to a statement signed by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, was aimed at assessing the operational readiness of troops, understanding their challenges, and identifying areas in need of additional support from the Defence Headquarters.
Speaking at the Government House in Yola, General Musa expressed appreciation for the Federal Government’s sustained support to the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), noting that such backing has played a vital role in enhancing operational efficiency across various theatres. He also thanked Governor Fintiri for his unwavering support to military personnel and families affected by conflict in the state.
The CDS emphasized that the Armed Forces are deploying both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to counter insecurity, explaining that while military force remains crucial, non-violent strategies often yield more lasting and community-driven outcomes. “There is a strong connection between development and security,” General Musa noted. “Where governance delivers tangible benefits to the people, they are more likely to support and protect the system.”
He identified poverty and illiteracy as key drivers of insecurity, stressing that insurgent groups tend to exploit these vulnerabilities to recruit followers. Commending the people of Adamawa State for sustaining relative peace amid nationwide security challenges, General Musa revealed that the Defence Headquarters had approved the establishment of Sector 4 under Operation Hadin Kai, with its headquarters to be located in Mubi, to address security concerns in Northern Adamawa.
In his remarks, Governor Fintiri reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to partnering with the Armed Forces in tackling emerging threats. He welcomed the creation of Sector 4, describing it as a strategic move to strengthen military operations in the region. The governor also announced that the state government had approved the rehabilitation of all roads within Gibson Jalo Barracks and had recruited local hunters to support ongoing military operations.
While addressing troops deployed in the operational area, the CDS announced plans to construct additional barracks and boost military presence across the state in response to new and evolving threats. He praised the troops for their resilience, sacrifice, and professionalism, conveying the appreciation of the Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and encouraged them to remain vigilant in identifying and neutralizing criminal elements.
During the visit, the Commander of 23 Brigade, Brigadier General O.A. Agwu, briefed General Musa on the operational activities within his area of responsibility. The CDS commended the Brigade for its role in sustaining peace in the region and reiterated the importance of their continued effort under the newly established Sector 4.
General Musa also visited the Nigerian Air Force’s 153 Base Service Group to inspect its facilities and assess its operational preparedness, further reinforcing the military’s integrated approach to addressing security challenges in the region.
