By Nkechi Eze
As part of his operational tours to assess the situation on ground and boost the morale of troops, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa has recently visited frontline units under OPERATION SAFE HAVEN in Kaduna and Plateau states respectively.
A statement made available to newsmen by the Director Defence Information states that; In his address to troops of the newly established 2 National Mission Brigade in Samaru Kataf, Kaduna state and troops of Sector 8 Mangu, Plateau state, the CDS charged them to respect and protect citizens human rights while conducting their operations. According to him, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) are trained not only to protect lives and properties, but also to uphold and respect the human rights of Nigerian citizens.
General Musa also urged troops to launch a decisive offensive against criminal hideouts, aiming to completely eradicate them. The CDS reiterated the need for a more intense and rejuvenated effort in combating insurgency in 2025, seeking a significant boost in momentum and effectiveness.
The Chief of Defence Staff also emphasized the importance of upholding the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s reputation by avoiding unlawful conduct. He also stressed the value of teamwork among troops to achieve greater operational success.
Earlier during the visit, the General officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar briefed the CDS on the general security situation under OPERATION SAFE HAVE joint operational area.
During his visit to Southern Kaduna, the CDS paid a courtesy visit to the Chief of Kagoro, His Royal Highness, Agwam Ufuwai Bonet, expressing gratitude for the royal father’s support to the troops stationed in the region. This gesture underscores the importance of collaboration between military leaders and traditional rulers in promoting peace and stability.
Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, representing Kaduna South senatorial district, joined the Chief of Defence Staff on a visit to the 2 National Mission Brigade. During the visit, Senator Katung expressed his gratitude to the CDS for implementing solutions to tackle insecurity in the region.