The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) has placed renewed emphasis on non-kinetic approaches by strengthening Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) activities across various theatres of operation in April 2026.
This was disclosed by the Director, Defence Media Operations (DMO), Major General Michael Onoja, during the monthly press briefing at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja on Thursday.
According to Maj. Gen. Onoja, the military recognised that lasting peace cannot be achieved through kinetic operations alone. Consequently, troops sustained robust CIMIC initiatives aimed at fostering community trust, promoting peaceful coexistence, and supporting local livelihoods.
According to the military authority,Peace and security meetings were held in Logo, Guma, and Agatu Local Government Areas of Benue State, as well as in Takum and Donga LGAs of Taraba State and Toto LGA of Nasarawa State. These engagements focused on addressing communal and ethnic tensions while enhancing collaboration between the military and local communities.
In Plateau State, troops under Operation Enduring Peace distributed fertiliser to representatives of traditional rulers, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and Jama’atul Islam to support agricultural activities. The command also organised a 17-kilometre unity marathon in Mangu LGA, which attracted wide participation and helped strengthen bonds between the military and civilians.
Additionally, Operation Enduring Peace launched a special initiative in Southern Kaduna to secure the 2026 farming season through enhanced security presence, farmer support, and close community collaboration aimed at preventing conflict and boosting food production.
Maj. Gen. Onoja emphasised that the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, has directed all Theatre Commanders to fully integrate CIMIC activities into their operations. He noted that these efforts are designed to facilitate the resettlement of displaced persons and reinforce public confidence in the military.
The Director, Defence Media Operations, reiterated that community cooperation remained a vital pillar of national security, and the AFN will continue to expand such initiatives to achieve inclusive and sustainable peace across the country.
