Gen Musa Unveils New Strategies to Crush Terrorists
In a renewed commitment to national security, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has declared that the Nigerian Armed Forces are more determined than ever to dismantle terrorists networks and restore peace across the country. He made this statement at the maiden Defence Headquarters Workshop on Psychological Operations, which began on May 13, 2025, in Abuja.
The theme of the three-daysworkshop is “Optimizing Psychological Operations for Efficiency in a Joint Environment.” The event brought together military strategists, psychologists, and field commanders, all focused on deepening inter-agency collaboration and enhancing non-kinetic methods to combat Nigeria’s growing security challenges.
New Commands, New Strategies, and a People-Centric Vision
General Musa revealed that the Armed Forces have undergone key command changes across operational theatres to deploy new strategies aimed at frustrating terrorist activities. These changes are expected to increase operational effectiveness, especially in safeguarding troops’ locations and protecting isolated communities from insurgent attacks.
“We are more than ever determined to go after all non-state actors to restore peace and stability in the country,” he stated. “With the recent changes in some of the commands, we expect new strategies to further destroy the capacities of the terrorists.”
According to the CDS, while the military has successfully restricted the movement and activities of insurgents through traditional operations, the evolving nature of internal threats necessitates an expanded approach. “The fight against terrorism has changed,” he emphasized. “It now requires a blend of kinetic (military) and non-kinetic (psychological and social) strategies.”
**Psychological Operations: Winning the War of Influence**
Highlighting the strategic importance of psychological operations (PSYOPS), General Musa noted that modern warfare is no longer fought solely with weapons, but also with narratives and perceptions.
“This workshop is timely, given the modern nature of warfare and the increasing importance of influencing public opinion,” he said. “Our goal is to shape perceptions, alter attitudes, and influence behavior in ways that support military objectives.”
Musa explained that these operations are essential in boosting troop morale, weakening enemy resolve, and ensuring civilians are not swayed by terrorist propaganda. He described his leadership vision as focused on building a professional, people-centric Armed Forces that is collaborative and capable of joint, efficient operations.
Wiwa Urges Real Investment in Mental and Strategic Warfare
Retired Major General Letam Wiwa, former Chief of Military Intelligence, delivered the keynote address and stressed the urgent need to prioritize psychological operations in today’s complex conflict environments.
“To truly optimize psychological operations, officers must go beyond PowerPoint presentations,” Wiwa said. “They need training, intelligence integration, and coordinated action. The power of the mind is the ultimate theatre of war.”
He also emphasized the importance of public perception, pointing out that both local and international audiences influence the appreciation of military efforts. “Our troops are doing tremendous work. But if we don’t project their successes strategically, we allow misinformation to take control.”
Call to Equip and Protect PSYOPS Officers
Wiwa also advocated for equipping psychological officers with the tools and mental health support needed to carry out their sensitive duties. “They are not social media influencers. They are military officers, creatives, linguists, and analysts in one,” he said. “They must be trained, protected, and supported mentally and operationally.”
He concluded with a powerful message: “If we control perception, we win hearts. If we shape emotions, we shift behavior. And if we master influence, we can minimize the use of force and still win the war.”
Presidency’s Support Acknowledged as Workshop Continues
General Musa expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru Abubakar for their consistent support to the Armed Forces.
“With the quality of participants and resource persons at this workshop, I am confident it will produce practical and actionable outcomes,” he said.
As the workshop continues through May 15, experts and military personnel are expected to develop innovative strategies that will further enhance Nigeria’s capacity to combat terrorism and restore long-term national stability.
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