The Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has called for stronger collaboration among the federal, state, and local governments in tackling insecurity across the country, stressing that security challenges can only be overcome through a united national effort.
Speaking during an interview on Arise TV, the retired general said insecurity remains a major national challenge that requires active participation from all levels of government and citizens alike.
Musa noted that while the Federal Government has continued to provide states with increased allocations, effective security management must begin at the grassroots level through functional local government systems.
According to him, crime is largely local in nature and can be contained more effectively when local authorities are proactive.
“Border security is one issue we have to look at, and for us, we need the states to partner with the federal government,” he said.
“The federal government is doing its best, states are getting their funds as required, more than they ever had. We need to have our local governments work because crime is local.”
The Defence Minister explained that efficient local government administration would help tackle threats within communities before they escalate to state or national levels.
He also stressed the importance of regional cooperation in combating terrorism and cross-border crimes, noting that terrorists often flee to neighbouring countries when military pressure intensifies.
Musa revealed that Nigeria is strengthening partnerships through the Multinational Joint Task Force to secure vulnerable border areas, particularly around the Nigeria–Benin–Niger corridor.
He disclosed that new security measures are being developed to prevent terrorist infiltration from Burkina Faso through Benin into Nigeria.
“We want to stop it,” he said.
Describing the current security situation as a difficult phase in the nation’s history, Musa maintained that Nigeria would emerge stronger through collective resolve and strategic action.
“What Nigeria is going through is trying periods. Countries go through this. It’s what you make out of it that makes you better or worse,” he stated.
He added that the country’s vast landmass makes it impossible for security agencies alone to cover every part of the nation without support from citizens and local institutions.
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