In a renewed effort to address rising insecurity and strengthen the relationship between security forces and civilians, the Nigerian Army has deepened its civil-military cooperation initiatives across the country.

The move, spearheaded by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher  Musa, emphasises non-kinetic approaches to security as a complement to ongoing military operations.

Speaking during a recent outreach program in Sokoto, the Army General, who was represented by Rear Admiral Olusanya Abiodun Bankole, the Chief of Defence, Civil/Military relations, highlighted the significance of winning the trust and confidence of communities.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria is an integral part of the people. We have sworn to protect them, and they are our people.

“To succeed in our operations, we must build trust and collaborate closely with the communities we serve,” he said.

The outreach activities which included free medical services, distribution of educational materials, mosquito nets, and infrastructural support such as road construction and borehole projects, are part of the Army’s broader strategy to win the hearts and minds of Nigerians.

These initiatives, according to the army boss, aim to demonstrate that the military is not only a combat force but also one that is a vital instrument of governance and national development.

Over 600 individuals directly benefited from the latest outreach, with the indirect impact estimated to reach more than 2,400 people due to the family-wide use of items like mosquito nets.

“When you empower a mother with a mosquito net, you protect a whole family,” the Army General added, emphasising the long-term benefits of such engagements.

He also noted that the programs are held monthly, thus creating a sustained platform for community engagement and support.

Arewa PUNCH reports that the military believes that such consistent efforts will encourage citizens to cooperate with security forces by sharing intelligence rather than siding with criminal elements.

“Security is a shared responsibility,” he said. “We are working to ensure that no part of Nigeria is taken over by bandits or terrorists. Peace must return for development to take place.”

Our correspondent notes that the Army’s outreach programnmè further reflects a growing understanding that security challenges can not be solved by force alone.

“By combining military might with empathy and support for civilian populations, the Nigerian Armed Forces are laying the foundation for a more secure and united country,” Gen Musa stressed.