By Joy Onu
The Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, has directed commanders across all military theatres to incorporate civil-focused engagement strategies into ongoing operations, as part of efforts to strengthen national security and build lasting peace.
The directive, which applies to all commands under the Armed Forces of Nigeria, was disclosed on Thursday during a media briefing in Abuja. It underscores a shift towards combining combat operations with community-based initiatives aimed at addressing the root causes of conflict.
Speaking at the briefing, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Michael Onoja, said the renewed focus on Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) reflects the military’s assessment that sustainable peace cannot be achieved through force alone.
He explained that commanders have been tasked with expanding engagements with local populations, particularly in conflict-affected regions, while maintaining operational discipline and respect for human rights.
In Benue State, recent CIMIC efforts in Logo, Guma and Agatu local government areas have facilitated dialogue among communities, helping to ease tensions linked to recurring communal clashes.
According to the military, such engagements are expected to improve intelligence gathering, foster trust, and create conditions that support the safe return of displaced persons to their communities.
General Oluyede also urged troops to remain vigilant and professional in the discharge of their duties, while showing sensitivity to civilian needs during operations. He commended personnel across various theatres for their ongoing efforts in counter-terrorism and internal security missions.
The briefing provided an overview of military activities recorded in April 2026, including progress made in operations against terrorist and criminal groups across seven operational theatres.
It also touched on broader security issues, including bilateral cooperation between Nigeria and the United States, as well as recent incidents affecting national security.
Reaffirming the military’s commitment, Major General Onoja called on citizens to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information through established channels.
He stressed that the fight against insecurity requires collective effort, while warning that criminal and terrorist groups, regardless of their capabilities, would continue to face sustained military pressure.
