By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, has called for stronger border security collaboration and accelerated indigenous defence production as critical pillars for Nigeria’s evolving military strategy.
He made the call while delivering his remarks at the inaugural lecture of the Joint Doctrine and Warfare Centre (JDWC), where he outlined a forward-looking vision anchored on self-reliance, joint operations, and regional cooperation.
According to a statement by the Director of Defence Information, Samaila Uba, the CDS emphasised that Nigeria’s Armed Forces are deliberately repositioning towards strengthening local defence manufacturing through the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) and other indigenous partners.
He also stressed the strategic importance of border security, noting that effective collaboration with neighbouring countries remains essential to addressing transnational threats and safeguarding internal security.
Responding to contributions from stakeholders at the lecture, General Oluyede reiterated the need for deeper synergy among the armed services, warning that isolated efforts by individual services may not deliver optimal operational outcomes. He highlighted practical instances demonstrating the importance of jointness, urging the Army, Navy, and Air Force to leverage their unique strengths in coordinated operations.
The CDS further disclosed that outcomes from the inaugural lecture would be presented to the Federal Executive Council and the Nigeria Governors’ Forum to secure broader stakeholder support for implementing the recommendations.
Also speaking at the event, the Minister of Defence, Christopher Gwabin Musa, described Nigeria’s security framework as requiring a “whole-of-society and whole-of-government approach.” He noted that the JDWC, established in July 2025, serves as an intellectual hub where the armed services integrate capabilities and develop unified strategies.
According to him, true operational effectiveness is achieved when land, maritime, and air forces operate as a single, coordinated entity, supported by the vigilance and cooperation of citizens.
Earlier, the Director-General of the Centre, A.E. Edet, highlighted progress made within six months of the Centre’s establishment, noting that with the backing of the CDS, the JDWC has rapidly developed frameworks and roadmaps toward full operationalisation.
He assured stakeholders that the Centre would remain committed to advancing innovation, doctrine development, and technological integration to strengthen national security and drive collective prosperity.
The inaugural lecture marked a significant milestone in institutionalising joint military thinking, enhancing defence coordination, and promoting a comprehensive approach to tackling insecurity in Nigeria.
The event attracted a wide range of participants, including Service Chiefs, former Chiefs of Defence Staff led by Alani Akinrinade, senior military officers, members of the diplomatic corps, heads of security agencies, and other key stakeholders.
