Here’s what’s covered in this article:
- Major General Chibuisi’s plea for Nigerians to see the army as their own.
- Efforts to improve public perception of soldiers.
- The crackdown on the illegal use of military uniforms.
- Commitment from journalists to responsible reporting on security matters.
A Call to Ownership: ‘We Are Your Army’
Maj. Gen. Chibuisi passionately stated during a roundtable with Defence correspondents in Abuja, “There is no army that doesn’t want itself to be seen as working for the people. We are the Nigerian Army. The Nigerian people own us. It is your army.” This declaration underscores the army’s desire to be seen as protectors and servants of the Nigerian populace.
Bridging the Trust Gap
The General shared a personal anecdote about an officer who spent nine months convincing a woman to marry him due to negative stereotypes associated with soldiers. This story highlights the existing trust issues and the ongoing efforts to change public perception. “I don’t want another officer to go through that,” Chibuisi said, emphasizing the importance of improving the army’s image through conduct and public engagement.
Tackling Uniform Misuse
Addressing the serious issue of civilians impersonating military personnel, Maj. Gen. Chibuisi warned about the dangers this poses to national security. He pointed out the rise of criminals using military uniforms to commit crimes, making it difficult to distinguish between genuine soldiers and offenders. He called on the media and the public to assist in identifying and reporting such cases, advocating for the arrest and prosecution of offenders.
Media Partnership for a Safer Nigeria
Ismail Musa, President of the Defence Correspondents’ Association of Nigeria, pledged journalists’ commitment to responsible, accurate, and balanced reporting on security matters. Musa emphasized that their work aims to foster a safer and more secure Nigeria through informed and ethical journalism.
The Bigger Picture: Civilian-Military Relations in Nigeria
The relationship between the Nigerian military and its citizens has historically been complex. During periods of military rule, the army was often viewed with suspicion and distrust. Even in a democratic era, incidents of heavy-handedness and alleged human rights abuses have strained relations. Therefore, initiatives like the one spearheaded by Maj. General Chibuisi are crucial for building confidence and fostering mutual respect.
Why This Matters
A strong, positive relationship between the military and the public is vital for national security. When citizens trust their army, they are more likely to cooperate with security efforts, provide valuable information, and support the military’s mission. This collaborative environment is essential for tackling the various security challenges facing Nigeria, including insurgency, banditry, and other forms of criminal activity.
What’s Next?
The Nigerian Army plans to deepen its public engagement through various initiatives, including community outreach programs, educational campaigns, and increased transparency in its operations. These efforts aim to demonstrate the army’s commitment to serving and protecting the Nigerian people, ultimately fostering a stronger sense of national unity and security.
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