We’re in control, service Chiefs assure Nigerians after meeting Tinubu

• President To Attend Pope Leo XIV’s Inauguration In Rome

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has reassured Nigerians that the Armed Forces are intensifying operations to confront insecurity across the country, especially in the face of growing threats spilling over from the Sahel region.

General Musa made the remarks on Friday following a high-level security meeting convened by President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. The meeting came ahead of the President’s scheduled trip to Rome on Saturday, where he will attend the inauguration mass of Pope Leo XIV, following an invitation from the Vatican.

The meeting, held behind closed doors, brought together key security stakeholders including National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Adeola Ajayi, and Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.

Briefing newsmen after the meeting, Musa said the gathering reviewed the country’s security landscape and outlined new strategies for enhanced coordination and response.

“The President is deeply concerned about the recent security challenges, especially in the North, and has directed us to do everything within our capacity to secure the nation. We have reassured him that we are on top of the situation and working extremely hard,” he said. Musa pointed to a surge in jihadist activities across the Sahel as a contributing factor, with Nigeria’s porous borders allowing infiltration.  

“The pressure from across the Sahel is real, and it’s finding its way into our territory. President Tinubu has instructed us to strengthen regional cooperation to counter these cross-border threats,” he added.

He disclosed that the President has approved the acquisition of additional military hardware, including air assets, to bolster ongoing operations in flashpoints across the country.

Beyond military measures, Musa emphasised a holistic approach that includes civil engagement, development initiatives, and coordination among federal, state, and local councils.

“We must combine force with compassion. Communities must feel the impact of governance. This isn’t just a kinetic war; it’s a battle for hearts and minds,” he said. He further highlighted the synergy among security agencies, stressing a unified national approach.

“We are operating as one – military, police, and intelligence services – with a common goal: securing peace for all Nigerians.” Addressing concerns from some state governors, particularly in Borno and Plateau states, the CDS acknowledged the need for stronger inter-governmental collaboration.

“I just returned from Maiduguri. We’ve been on the ground in the North-East with ministers and service chiefs. We are working hand-in-hand with governors because this challenge requires all levels of government,” he said.

Musa urged citizens to be vigilant, cooperate with security agencies, and avoid falling prey to disinformation.

“There’s an alarming spread of fake news — old or foreign footage repurposed to stoke fear. Some people even rejoice when things go wrong, which is unfortunate,” he said. He encouraged the public to report any suspicious activity or even misconduct by security personnel.

“We are committed to discipline and accountability. If you see something, say something; we will respond.” Musa affirmed the Armed Forces’ determination to succeed.

“To those who doubt our resolve or wish for our failure, we will continue to overcome. That is our promise to Nigeria,” he stated. Presidential Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, had noted on Thursday that President Tinubu would join global dignitaries and senior Catholic clergy for the solemn mass marking the beginning of the pontificate of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV — the 267th Bishop of Rome and new head of the Roman Catholic Church.
 
In a formal invitation delivered by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican emphasised the significance of President Tinubu’s presence “at this moment of particular importance for the Catholic Church and a world plagued by numerous tensions and conflicts.”
 
Pope Leo XIV, who previously served at the Apostolic Nunciature in Lagos during the 1980s, expressed a deep personal connection to Nigeria, describing the country as “particularly dear” to him.
 
The President will be accompanied by a high-level delegation, including the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu; President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, Archbishop Lucius Ugorji; Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama of Abuja; Archbishop Alfred Martins of Lagos; and Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah of Sokoto Diocese.
 
Formerly known as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, Pope Leo XIV will be formally installed during a grand ceremony at St. Peter’s Square on Sunday, May 18, following his election by the College of Cardinals 27 days after the death of Pope Francis on April 21.
 
President Tinubu is expected to return to Abuja on Tuesday, May 20.