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The ultimate ambition is to see the Armed Forces of Nigeria not only respected as a formidable security force, but embraced as a trusted national partner for peace, development, and democratic consolidation.

The Chief of Defence Staff, CDS, General Christopher Gwabin Musa gave this assertion at the Maiden Defence Headquarters Civil-Military Relations Conference 2025 in Abuja themed, “Winning Hearts and Minds: Non-Kinetic Approaches to National Security”, encapsulates this new direction.  

The Defence Chief, General Musa while declaring the conference noted that this occasion marks not just a significant step forward in our collective national journey, but also a new chapter in how we, as a country, approach the ever-evolving challenges of security and national cohesion

"Over the next 2 days, we will engage in panel discussions, interactive sessions, and presentations from experts, civil society actors, and security practitioners. We will also listen to stories and experiences that reveal both the successes and the challenges of civil-military engagement in various operational theatres across the country

Going back to history, General Musa affirmed that the relationship between the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the civilian population has, at times, been characterized by suspicion, fear, and mistrust

"This unfortunate legacy has often hampered our ability to effectively work together, particularly in times of crisis or national emergency. 

"The military has been seen not as a partner in progress, but as an occupying force, alien to the people it is meant to serve and protect. Today, we must acknowledge that perception and commit ourselves to changing it. 

"The reality is that the Armed Forces of Nigeria are a constitutionally established institution, deeply rooted in democratic principles and accountable to the Nigerian people. Our mandate is to safeguard the territorial integrity of this country and, just as importantly, to support civil authority in ensuring peace, stability, and development."he said

General Musa is optimistic that at the end of this Conference, we expect to emerge with not just recommendations, but actionable frameworks that can be embedded in our planning, operations, and community outreach programmes. 

This Conference, therefore, is not a one-off event but a strategic initiative, conceptualized to become an annual platform for honest engagement, thoughtful reflection, and practical collaboration. 

The overarching goal is to "win hearts and minds", and shift from a purely kinetic, force-based approach to one that prioritizes trust-building, respect for human rights, and community partnership. 

It challenges us to think beyond weapons and warfare. It calls us to invest in human security, to build resilient communities, and to reinforce the idea that every Nigerian, whether in uniform or not, has a stake in the peace and prosperity of our great nation.

General Musa urged traditional rulers and religious leaders to continue to support the military. "Your role is invaluable. "You remain the custodians of our values, culture, and moral compass. We count on your voices in shaping public opinion and bridging divides in your communities. To our partners in civil society, the media, and academia: your critical insights and constructive feedback are essential. We welcome your ideas and your support as we strive to deepen professionalism, accountability, and responsiveness in all our engagements. 

He reiterated the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to this new direction which is a people-centric security philosophy. He said the road to national stability and development cannot be paved by bullets alone. It must be built on the foundations of understanding, dialogue, partnership, and shared purpose.

Earlier in his remarks, the Chief of Civil-Military Relations at the Defence Headquarters, Rear Admiral Olusanya Bankole, said the event marked a significant milestone in the military’s ongoing commitment towards a “people-centric” concepts championed by the Chief of Defence Staff.

“This conference has been convened to help change negative narratives about the Nigerian Armed Forces. It is an avenue to advance non-kinetic strategies and tools of peace, dialogue, outreach, and engagements that will restore trust and rebuild the vital bridge between the military and the civilians we are sworn to serve,” Rear Admiral Bankole said.