Chief of Defence Staff Emphasizes Human Security as Core Military Focus

The Chief of Defence Staff, General O.O. Oluyede, has reiterated the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s commitment to evolving into a military that is centred on people, guided by strong ethics, and professionally accountable, with a renewed focus on human security and gender considerations.

He made this declaration at the inauguration of the Human Security and Gender Advisers Course in Abuja. Represented by Major General Ibrahim Lassa, the Chief of Defence Standards and Evaluation, General Oluyede lauded the longstanding Nigeria-UK defence partnership, especially the British support in civil-military relations.

The CDS described Nigeria’s security landscape as complex and layered, marked by threats from asymmetric warfare, violent extremism, ethnic conflicts, cross-border crime, and humanitarian crises that heavily impact civilian populations. He argued that true national security must extend beyond protecting borders to safeguarding human life, dignity, and community resilience.

He stated that this training program is central to his strategic vision for a more integrated, operationally ready, and welfare-oriented military, pursued through a “whole-of-government” strategy. “The AFN is being reshaped into a force that is not just operationally effective but also ethically sound, people-focused, and attuned to socio-cultural dynamics,” General Oluyede said.

He highlighted human security and gender advisory positions as essential components that boost the military’s legitimacy, extend its operational impact, and ensure the sustainability of its missions. He encouraged attendees to utilize their new insights in planning, deployments, and community interactions.

In his opening remarks, the Chief of Defence Civil-Military Cooperation, Rear Admiral Saburi Lawal, noted that participants were drawn from the AFN, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps. He explained that the course aims to enhance professionalism, improve collaboration with civilians, and build greater public confidence.

This initiative is part of the AFN’s broader efforts to develop its capabilities through international cooperation and ongoing professional training.