14th December, 2024
By Mohammed Tijjani
The Chief of Defence Staff, (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa on Friday called for a collaborative and multi-dimensional approach towards securing the Nigerian collective future.
Musa made the call at the graduation ceremony of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC) of the members of Junior Course 98 at Jaji Military Cantonment, Kaduna.
CDS Musa said, “The College has over the years remained committed to providing world-class training for tactical and operational level officers.
“The college strives to refine officers’ intuition and sharpen their creative capability to respond adequately to complex security threats at the tactical level in a collaborative environment, is evident in the output of officers in the field.
“This drive aligns with my leadership concept which is to nurture a professional Armed Forces of Nigeria that is people-centric, capable of meeting its constitutional responsibilities in a joint and collaborative environment.
“In line with its assigned role, the AFCSC is today graduating professionally qualified Grade 3 Staff Officers from our armed forces and other defence-related agencies as well as from friendly nations,” he said.
CDS Musa also urged the officers to play key roles and live up to expectations as this would ultimately help the nation to achieve strategic objectives and by extension the sub-region.
“It is a well-known fact that the country is currently faced with various complex security challenges.
“These complex threats call for a collaborative and multi-dimensional approach towards securing our collective future.”
The CDS said the military was working assiduously with other instruments of national power and other stakeholders to achieve our country’s strategic objective of defeating threats to our national security.
Musa said, “Remember, you are part of the military effort in solving these challenges.
“You must, therefore, live up to these expectations and act as proud representatives of this distinguished institution upon graduation and do your part in surmounting these challenges.
“You must also remember that leadership is not about rank but about character, uprightness and inspiring others, equally, teamwork is crucial to the attainment of success in all endeavours.
“Hence, you are required to collaborate, listen and empower your subordinates.”
He advised them to bear in mind that adaptability was key, adding,” as such, you ought to stay agile, innovate,evolve and maintain the highest level of integrity always.”
Musa charged them to uphold the highest levels of discipline in their services to the country, including respect for the rule of law and human rights.
He added, “We all must recognize that the citizens of this country and those of your respective countries will expect significantly greater professionalism from you in the conduct of your duties.
”Hence, the Armed Forces Act, Standing Operating Procedures and Rules of Engagement for various operations should guide your activities, particularly in our Internal Security and Counter-Terrorism efforts.
“Protect your nation and its people and embody the values of this institution including courage,discipline and excellence.”
Musa also congratulated the international students from Cameroon, Gambia and Ghana.
He said, “You should feel accomplished for completing the Junior Course and honoured for making your nations and families proud.
“Please maintain the relationships built during this course, they will be essential for bolstering strategic partnerships and fostering continued military collaboration in future.
“To our colleagues from other Ministries Departments and Agencies, though our environments might seem different, our aim remains the same. “
Musa said they would continue to synergise towards the attainment of national goals and objectives.
The CDS appreciated President Bola Tinubu for his support to the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the college.
“Your commitment to strengthening our nation’s defence and security architecture is truly appreciated,” Musa said.
He also congratulated the families of the officers for enduring with them throughout the course and holding the homes while they trained.
Earlier in his remarks, the Commandant of the college , AVM Hassan Alhaji, expressed gratitude to the CDS for his support and mentorship throughout the course.
Alhaji highlighted the college’s efforts to review and expand its curriculum to address contemporary and emerging threats.
He also commended the students for their dedication and resilience, emphasising that they had been equipped with the necessary skills to operate efficiently in various operations.
Alhaji said that the course comprised officers from the Armed Forces of Nigeria, friendly nations and Ministries, Departments, and Agencies.
He encouraged the graduating students to remain worthy ambassadors of the college and to uphold the values of discipline, integrity, loyalty and service before self.
Awards were given to the students who distinguished themselves during the study tour.(NAN)
