The Defence Headquarters, Abuja, has continued its strategic outreach in the Niger Delta region with a military diplomacy campaign to the Ahoada Kingdom in Ahoada East Local Government Area of Rivers State, engaging traditional rulers, youth and women leaders, and community stakeholders on key security issues and collaborative solutions.
Speaking during the interactive session, the Defence Headquarters Delegation Team Leader and Deputy Director, Defence Media Operations, Brigadier General Mohammed Dahiru Abu-Mawashi, who represented the Chief of Defence Staff, CDS Christopher Musa emphasized the military’s commitment to fostering peace and development through community-driven partnerships.
“We recognize your resilience and cultural heritage, and we commend the efforts of your traditional institutions, youth, and women leaders in sustaining peace,” he said. “This campaign is not to impose, but to listen and collaborate. Together, we can develop sustainable security solutions for the benefit of the nation.”
He acknowledged the significance of the Niger Delta as Nigeria’s economic backbone, noting that insecurity particularly crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism continue to undermine national revenue and environmental sustainability.
“In 2024 alone, Nigeria lost over $3 billion to illegal oil bunkering and related criminal activities,” Brig Gen Abu-Mawashi revealed. “These acts not only threaten national development but also poison livelihoods, destroy farmlands, and damage the health of residents. Community participation in intelligence gathering is key. You are the eyes and ears of the nation.”
The Team Leader stressed that without grassroots cooperation, the armed forces cannot succeed in safeguarding the region.
In a symbolic display of cultural diplomacy, His Royal Majesty Eze Noble Friday Uwon, CSP (Rtd), the Eze Igbu-Ehuda of Ahoada Kingdom, warmly welcomed the Defence Headquarters delegation and described the campaign as a “shield of partnership” between the Nigerian Armed Forces and the people of Ahoada.
“I commend the Chief of Defence Staff for this visionary outreach. As a retired Chief Superintendent of Police, I understand the sacrifices made in securing our people,” he said, while recalling recent tragic losses of local security agents. “We will not allow crime or insecurity to thrive within our peaceful kingdom.”
The monarch presented the team with traditional symbols of hospitality: kola nut, bitter kola, and native pepper-fish spice (Okozo), affirming their unity and appreciation for the military’s presence.
Leaders of cultural groups, women, and youth also spoke at the forum, expressed cautious optimism and urged the military to sustain the engagement beyond rhetoric.
One speaker noted: “Unlike politicians who make promises and disappear, the military’s direct and practical approach has given us hope. We thank you for this seminar and hope actions will follow these words.”
In his brief remarks, Hon. Goodluck Moses, the representative of the Ahoada East Local Government Administrator, pledged the council’s support to the military’s initiative.
“Security is a collective responsibility. We see this campaign as a welcome step toward better understanding and cooperation,” he said.
A community leader,Comrade Victor Amachere, in his closing remarks, prayed for continued unity between security forces and communities.
“This initiative has opened doors. Let us build on this understanding so our communities feel seen, heard, and protected. We pray that this engagement marks the beginning of a new relationship.”
The Defence Headquarters delegation was accompanied by Lt Colonel M.Y. Shimfe, Commanding Officer of the COAS Intervention Battalion VIII, Ahoada.
The military diplomacy campaign continue as part of Defence Headquarters’ nationwide strategy to build trust and secure enduring peace through cultural respect and civil-military cooperation.
