The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of Nigeria, General Christopher Musa, has called on host communities across the country to take an active role in protecting national assets located within their areas. He made this appeal during a recent visit to the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) plant in Bonny Island, Rivers State.
General Musa emphasized that national infrastructure such as oil and gas installations are critical to Nigeria’s economic stability and security. He said these assets must be safeguarded not just by the military and law enforcement agencies, but also by the communities in which they are situated. According to the CDS, ensuring the safety and functionality of these facilities is a shared responsibility.
He noted that the destruction or sabotage of such assets negatively impacts the country’s economy, disrupts national development, and affects job creation. General Musa warned that attacks on national infrastructure are tantamount to attacks on the entire nation. He urged communities to see these installations as part of their heritage and to take pride in protecting them.
The CDS acknowledged the challenges that many communities face, including limited development and socio-economic issues. However, he maintained that the destruction of public and economic assets only worsens these problems. He urged community leaders, youth groups, and local residents to collaborate with the military and government agencies to report suspicious activities and prevent acts of sabotage.
During the visit, General Musa reaffirmed the military’s commitment to safeguarding national assets and ensuring a secure environment for economic activities to flourish. He said the Nigerian Armed Forces would continue to work in synergy with other security agencies and stakeholders to prevent attacks on strategic infrastructure.
He also praised the efforts of the NLNG in contributing to national development and urged the company to maintain strong relations with host communities. General Musa stated that peaceful coexistence between companies and local populations is essential for sustainable development.
In response, representatives of the NLNG management expressed appreciation for the military’s support and protection. They highlighted the importance of continued collaboration between the company, the military, and host communities. They also reaffirmed their commitment to corporate social responsibility and community development.
The call by the CDS comes at a time when Nigeria continues to face security threats in various regions, including pipeline vandalism, oil theft, and militant activities in the Niger Delta. These threats have caused significant revenue losses for the government and disrupted critical energy infrastructure.
General Musa’s appeal is part of a broader national strategy to encourage civil-military cooperation and enhance local participation in national security. Authorities believe that building trust and collaboration with local communities is key to reducing threats to infrastructure and ensuring lasting peace.
The military chief concluded by urging Nigerians to see national assets as collective property, the protection of which guarantees future prosperity for all citizens. He called for a united front against economic sabotage and reiterated that the defence of Nigeria’s wealth must involve every stakeholder, including civilians living around these critical sites.
The visit to the NLNG facility highlights the importance the military places on strategic infrastructure and reflects the ongoing efforts to secure assets vital to the country’s economy. As security operations continue across Nigeria, the involvement of communities is increasingly seen as essential to long-term success.
