The Association of Northern Nigeria Students (ANNS) has called on Nigerians to support security agencies in the fight against insecurity, saying the responsibility of protecting the country cannot be left to the military and other security institutions alone.
The students’ body also urged citizens to exercise restraint and objectivity when discussing national security matters, stressing that constructive engagement and respect for due process were necessary to strengthen the country’s fight against insecurity.
The call was contained in a joint statement signed by Comrades Baba Mahadi and Onorerama Jonshon in which the association also expressed confidence in the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd.).
ANNS said Musa had demonstrated courage, patriotism and commitment to national security since his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The association described the minister’s military career as evidence of his dedication to protecting lives and promoting peace and national unity.
‘General Musa has consistently demonstrated courage, patriotism, and an unwavering commitment to the peace, unity, and security of our nation,’ the group said.
The students argued that tackling insecurity required cooperation between security agencies and citizens, noting that members of the public had an important role to play by providing useful information and supporting legitimate security efforts.
‘Nigeria belongs to its citizens and we, the citizens, must rise to be objective in our views to face the security challenges bedevilling the nation,’ ANNS said.
The group urged Nigerians to support security institutions in carrying out their constitutional responsibilities while expressing concerns over narratives or actions that could weaken public confidence in the agencies.
It also called for peaceful engagement on security issues and respect for established legal processes, saying criticism of government and security institutions should remain constructive.
According to the association, Nigerians must distinguish between legitimate criticism aimed at improving security and actions that could undermine national cohesion.
ANNS further commended President Tinubu for appointing Musa as Defence Minister, saying the retired general had brought his experience to bear in the discharge of his responsibilities under the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The students said the minister’s experience remained relevant as Nigeria continued to face complex security challenges across different parts of the country.
The association therefore reaffirmed its vote of confidence in Musa and called on Nigerians to close ranks with security agencies in efforts to restore lasting peace and security.
It said national security should be treated as a collective responsibility requiring cooperation, responsible citizenship and support for lawful efforts to protect lives and property.