The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, has emphasized that relying solely on the military to address crisis situations leading to armed conflict, insurrection, and internal tension within the state may not always be the most effective approach in dealing with the multitude of security challenges facing the nation.
General Lagbaja highlighted the importance of addressing grievances early on to prevent conflicts from escalating into major crises. He stressed the need to tackle the root causes of armed conflicts while acknowledging the role of the military in national security.
Speaking at the Chief of Army Staff’s Annual Lecture Series at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre (NARC) in Abuja, General Lagbaja underscored the significance of the military’s functions in serving the state and its citizens. He pointed out the rise of intra-state conflicts since the end of the Cold War, primarily driven by non-state actors such as insurgent groups like Boko Haram, Al-Shabab, and others, creating a complex and unpredictable security landscape.
General Lagbaja highlighted the widespread deployment of the Nigerian Military across the country and emphasized the intertwined nature of national security and interests. He emphasized the pivotal role played by the Armed Forces of Nigeria in safeguarding the nation’s security and interests, rooted in the fundamental need for survival and protection.
In addressing defense economics, General Lagbaja stressed the importance of aligning capability requirements with political objectives and securing necessary funding for training and adaptation. He emphasized the need for clear policies, strategies, and continuous training to meet evolving security challenges effectively.
The event also saw contributions from other dignitaries, including the Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, Ambassador Babagana Kingibe, and other senior officials from various security agencies and government bodies. The discussions focused on the critical role of the military in protecting Nigeria’s national interests and security in a rapidly changing security environment.
