Nigerian Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has urged African nations to unite and tackle the complex and evolving security challenges confronting the continent.
He said that the continent must take ownership of their collective security architecture and stop relying entirely on external powers to tackle its challenges.
General Musa, stated this in his remarks at the ongoing Africa Chiefs of Defence Staff Summit in Abuja on Monday, August 25, 2025. He noted that challenges from the scourge of violent extremism and terrorism to the menace of transnational organized crime, piracy, and insidious impacts of climate change on conflict, recognize no borders.
“They are hard-headed, resilient, and demand a response that is equally dynamic, unified, and strategic. The truth of the theme of this summit, “Combating Contemporary Threats to Regional Peace and Security in Africa, the role of defence collaboration,” is both timely and urgent.
Gen. Musa, said that with prevailing insecurity and emerging threats , “The era of outsourcing Africa’s security is over. We must be the architects of our own peace and the guardians of our sovereignty,”
The summit, themed “Combating Contemporary Threats to Regional Peace and Security in Africa: The Role of Strategic Defence Collaboration”, brought together top military leaders to explore pathways for greater regional cooperation.
CDS emphasised the need for robust intelligence-sharing frameworks, joint military training, and investment in indigenous defence industries, noting that Africa’s heavy reliance on foreign technology often leaves its forces vulnerable.
He also highlighted the growing importance of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, drones, and cyber defence systems, urging African states to innovate locally and protect homegrown capabilities from external control.
“True security comes not only from strength of arms but also from the unity of purpose. Our enemies may be many, but their strength thrives in our division. Together, we are unbreakable.
“Let us rise above division and embrace unity. Let us build a continent where our people can live free from fear, and where our armed forces are symbols of stability, professionalism, and pride. Let us use this summit to explore how we can build a defence industrial base that is Africa in origin, Africa in design, and Africa in purpose.
Gen. Musa also paid tribute to African soldiers who have died in the line of duty, calling for greater solidarity among nations in supporting the families of the fallen.
“Many have paid the ultimate price in defence of our nations. Their courage and sacrifice must inspire us to build institutions that are not only strong, but just and accountable.
“At this juncture, let me extend our deepest appreciation to the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for his dynamic leadership and unwavering support to the armed forces of Nigeria. Your Excellency, you have always believed in the vision of a united Africa and you have made today’s gathering a reality.
“Let me also appreciate all our partners, regional institutions, especially ECOWAS, international allies, developmental agencies and private sector collaborators whose unwavering support made this summit a reality. We will never forget the United Nations that have continued to provide the platform for peace all over the world. Your contributions, technical expertise, strategic collaboration and other forms of support have been instrumental in bringing today’s summit into fruition.
“We are grateful. To my fellow brothers and colleagues, the Chiefs of Defence Staff from across the African continent, I salute your commitment, your condor and your courage. Your presence here in Abuja has sent a powerful message that Africa is ready to take ownership of the security narrative.
“Our deliberations must be frank, robust and appreciative of our great, our current strategic environment. We must therefore rise from the summit with that statement of unity and cooperation. Together, let us stand in defence of Africa. Together, let us secure our future. Thank you all and wish you a fruitful deliberation,” Musa stated as he concluded his remark.