Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, has emphasized the need for increased cooperation between the Ministries of Defence and Interior to effectively address the country’s internal security challenges. During a courtesy visit to the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in Abuja, Musa stressed that a seamless collaboration and shared responsibility are crucial in tackling the evolving security threats.
The Minister described the two ministries as complementary components of the national security framework, noting that the distinction between internal and external security has become increasingly blurred due to asymmetric threats such as terrorism, insurgency, and cross-border crimes. He highlighted that no single agency or ministry can address these challenges alone, emphasizing the need for intelligence-driven, whole-of-government responses.
Musa proposed strengthening the joint intelligence fusion framework between the Defence Intelligence Agency and interior agencies, such as the Nigerian Immigration Service and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps. He also advocated for the use of secure technology platforms for real-time information sharing, regular joint simulations, and clear protocols for joint operations.
The Minister of Interior, Dr Tunji-Ojo, concurred with Musa’s assessment, noting that weak internal security architecture can overstretch the military. He emphasized the importance of effective internal security agencies, which would enable the armed forces to focus on their core defence mandate. Tunji-Ojo warned against rivalry and territorialism among security institutions, stressing that Nigerians are more concerned about safety and performance than ministerial boundaries.
Border security was identified as a critical area for collaboration, particularly through the Nigerian Immigration Service. The ministers agreed that securing the country’s borders is essential for guaranteeing the safety of its citizens. The Ministry of Defence has pledged to continue supporting capacity-building for internal security agencies through specialized training and logistical support.
The call for increased cooperation between the Ministries of Defence and Interior comes as Nigeria continues to grapple with various security challenges. The country’s security architecture is facing significant pressure, and the need for a coordinated response has become increasingly urgent. By strengthening inter-ministerial cooperation and improving intelligence sharing, Nigeria’s security agencies can better address the complex threats facing the country, ultimately enhancing the safety and security of its citizens.
