The Arewa Concerned Citizens Forum (ACCF) has expressed its appreciation for the efforts of Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, in enhancing peace and security across the nation.Â
This recognition came through a statement issued in Kaduna on Sunday, emphasizing the forum’s admiration for the CDS’s recent initiatives.
The statement was signed by prominent members of the forum, including the co-founders, Alhaji Bello Abubakar and Dr. Victor Bobai.
Other signatories included the forum’s Secretary, Mr. Ibrahim Kolo, Assistant Public Relations Officer, Mr. Moses Enenche, and a member, Hajiya Amina Funtua.
According to the statement, the ACCF also expressed its strong support for General Musa’s recent diplomatic visit to the Republic of Niger.
The visit, which took place on August 28, 2023, saw General Musa being warmly received by his Nigerien counterpart, General Mousa Barmo.
The meeting was a key part of efforts to bolster bilateral relations between the two neighboring countries.
During their discussions, General Musa and General Barmo focused on critical regional security issues, particularly the ongoing threats posed by terrorist groups operating within the Sahel region.
The ACCF praised the visit as a landmark achievement in fostering closer ties between Nigeria and Niger, with a particular emphasis on improving peace and security collaboration.
The forum further noted that General Musa’s initiative reflects his deep commitment to ensuring regional stability and highlights his understanding of the interconnected nature of Nigeria’s security challenges.
The statement applauded his efforts to reinforce partnerships with neighboring countries, noting that such cooperation is vital in combating shared security threats, including Boko Haram, terrorism, and banditry.
“By reassuring our neighbors of our partnership and cooperation,” the statement read, “General Musa has taken a significant step forward in addressing the various security challenges that continue to plague our region. His efforts demonstrate a deep sense of patriotism and dedication to the protection of our nation and its people.”
The forum called on Northern elites to recognize the sincerity of General Musa’s mission and urged them to support his efforts. “He is not a politician; he is a committed military leader focused on safeguarding the nation. It is essential that we rally behind him and work collectively to achieve the shared goal of restoring peace to our region,” the statement added.
Additionally, the ACCF extended a call to the Hausa and Fulani communities in both Northern Nigeria and Niger to lend their support to General Musa, emphasizing that peace is achievable through united efforts.
The forum believes that with broad-based backing and cooperation, significant progress can be made toward securing lasting peace in the region.