By Harriet Tornguvan -Abuja
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has applauded the Northern Traditional Rulers Council for their unwavering commitment to promoting peace, unity, and national stability across the region.
In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the Defence Chief gave the commendation in a goodwill message delivered during the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council General Assembly held in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State.
General Musa congratulated His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto and Chairman of the Council, along with other eminent traditional rulers, describing the theme of the Assembly, “Strengthening Community Collaboration for Lasting Peace and Security in Northern Nigeria,” as timely and highly relevant.
He emphasized that the theme highlights the indispensable role of traditional institutions as custodians of culture, morality, and communal harmony—key elements in building and sustaining peace and security in society.
According to the Defence Chief, traditional rulers remain the bedrock of governance and the first point of contact between the government and the people. He noted that their contributions to conflict resolution, mediation, and intelligence gathering have greatly supported the operational successes of the Armed Forces in various theatres of operation.
General Musa reiterated that peace and security cannot be enforced but must be nurtured through dialogue, mutual trust, and collaboration. He called for a “whole-of-society” approach involving traditional institutions, youth and women groups, religious leaders, and government agencies in countering violence and promoting national unity.
He further expressed appreciation for the continuous cooperation and support extended by traditional rulers to the Armed Forces, urging sustained partnership to achieve enduring peace and stability in the North and the country at large.
The CDS commended the Northern Traditional Rulers Council for its visionary leadership and steadfastness towards the development of the region, expressing optimism that the Assembly would strengthen existing partnerships and inspire renewed hope for unity and peace.
Earlier, during a courtesy visit to the Kebbi State Government House, General Musa praised the developmental efforts of the state government and expressed delight at being in Kebbi, which he described as “home.” He thanked Governor Nasir Idris for his continued support to the Armed Forces and other security agencies, noting that such collaboration remains crucial to successful security operations.
The CDS reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to restoring peace and stability across Kebbi State, the North West, and the entire nation.
In his remarks, Governor Idris commended the Armed Forces for their relentless efforts in maintaining peace and security in the state. He said the government’s recent provision of vehicles and logistics to security agencies was part of its commitment to strengthening their operations. The Governor also appreciated the deployment of armoured vehicles and special forces to the state, describing General Musa’s leadership as exemplary and inspiring.
Meanwhile, General Musa is expected to attend the final match of the General Christopher Musa Peace and Unity Cup 2025 scheduled to hold at the FIFA Goal Project Stadium in Birnin Kebbi. The football tournament, designed to foster peace, unity, and social cohesion, features participants from Kebbi, Zamfara, and Sokoto States. Governor Idris is also expected to grace the grand finale.
