Bomba Dauda
A coalition of northern youths under the platform Northern Nigeria United Youths for Peace and Progress has declared strong support for the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd.), while condemning recent calls for his resignation by some activists and political figures.
The group made its position known during a press conference held on Thursday at the Epitome Events Centre in Barnawa, Kaduna.
Addressing journalists, the youth group said it convened the press briefing to respond to what it described as “recent developments affecting national security and the unity of Nigeria,” particularly criticisms directed at the Defence Minister.
According to the group, Nigeria has witnessed renewed security challenges in recent months, including attacks by terrorists and bandits across various regions of the country. However, it argued that these incidents are sometimes being exploited by individuals and groups pursuing political or personal interests.
The coalition maintained that significant progress had been recorded in the security sector since the inauguration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration on May 29, 2023. It attributed part of these gains to the leadership of General Musa during his tenure as Chief of Defence Staff and his current role as Minister of Defence.
The youths described Musa as a disciplined and results-driven officer whose leadership style emphasized troop motivation, improved coordination among security agencies, and the adoption of non-kinetic strategies through partnerships with local communities.
They noted that his time in military leadership witnessed several reforms and security successes across different parts of the country, adding that his return to national service as Defence Minister was widely welcomed by many Nigerians.
The group expressed concern over what it called “personal attacks and politically motivated calls” for the minister’s resignation, suggesting that some critics may be attempting to use insecurity as a tool for political advantage.
It particularly criticized statements allegedly made by Ambassador Abdul Dan Bature and activist Omoyele Sowore, describing them as irresponsible and unrepresentative of the views of northern youths.
While dismissing the comments attributed to Dan Bature as divisive, the group accused Sowore of using inflammatory rhetoric and personal attacks against national leaders.
The coalition urged Sowore to adopt a more constructive approach to public discourse, stressing that insults and name-calling do not contribute to meaningful national dialogue or solutions to security challenges.
The group also demanded what it described as a retraction and public apology over remarks it considered disrespectful to the Defence Minister.
Reaffirming its support for the current administration, the youths said they stand firmly behind President Tinubu and the ongoing reforms within the Ministry of Defence under General Musa.
They expressed confidence that the reforms would strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture, enhance collaboration among security agencies, and improve operational effectiveness in the fight against insecurity.
The coalition further called on Nigerians to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies, and provide intelligence that would assist efforts to defeat criminal elements across the country.
The press conference was signed by Malam Idris Mohammed, Co-Convener, and Edward John Auta, Convener of the Northern Nigeria United Youths for Peace and Progress.
