As part of the ongoing Military Diplomacy and Sensitization Campaign in Rivers State, the Chief of Defence Staff CDS Christopher Musa has called for strengthened cooperation between the Nigerian military and host communities in oil-producing regions to promote peace, security, and socio-economic stability.
Speaking during an interactive session at Alesa Eleme Town Hall, Eleme Local Government Area, CDS Christopher Musa represented by Brigadier General Mohammed Dahiru Abu-Mawashi, Deputy Director of Defence Media Operations at the Defence Headquarters, Abuja,who led Defence Correspondents from Defence Headquarters abuja,emphasized the strategic importance of the Niger Delta to Nigeria’s economy, particularly in foreign exchange earnings derived from crude oil.
“We recognize your resilience and contribution to national development. Our presence here is not to issue orders but to listen, engage, and work together to find lasting solutions,” he said.
“Over 80 percent of our foreign exchange comes from this region. Yet, illegal activities and environmental exploitation are posing grave risks not just to this community but to the global environment. We must confront these threats together.”
He warned that illegal refining and pollution in the region are contributing to widespread health hazards and economic damage. Brig Gen Abu-Mawashi appealed to community members to support the military with actionable intelligence on criminal activities and emphasized the military’s commitment to fostering peace through inclusive engagement with youths, women, and traditional institutions.
“Security cannot succeed without your involvement. The military alone cannot do it. We must empower our youths to shun violence and embrace positive alternatives to build a more secure future.”
Various community leaders and cultural group representatives used the occasion to commend the Nigerian Armed Forces for their engagement strategy but also raised concerns over long-standing issues affecting their people.
One youth representative noted: “We are facing issues ranging from youth unemployment to inadequate electricity and social services. The military’s presence and engagement are commendable, but we need more support from the government to uplift the lives of our people.”
They called on authorities to create platforms that encouraged skill acquisition, education, and sustainable livelihoods for young people, while also addressing basic infrastructure gaps.
In his remarks, His Royal Majesty, King Dr. Emperor J.D. Nkpe JP, ONEH-EH ALESA X, Paramount Ruler of Alesa Eleme Kingdom, expressed gratitude for the military’s renewed commitment to peacebuilding.
“For 28 years, I’ve been on this path of service to my people. The issues of marginalization and conflict in the Niger Delta require not only military presence but strategic communication and trust-building,” he said.
King Nkpe recalled critical moments in the history of the region and urged the federal government to build more community-centric engagement mechanisms. He emphasized the importance of transparency, inclusiveness, and mutual respect in restoring peace and harmony.
Also present at the session were Lt Colonel I.J. Otogo, Commanding Officer of 29 Battalion, Eleme ,officers of other sister security agencies; representatives of youth and women groups; and members of the press.
The event formed part of a broader Defence Headquarters Military Diplomacy and Sensitization Campaign, aimed at fostering civil-military relations and community participation in national security efforts.
