DHQ Expands Civil-Military Cooperation To Strengthen Peace, Community Trust
By Anne Osemekeh, Abuja
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has intensified its Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) activities across various theatres of operation, as part of efforts to complement ongoing military campaigns with community-focused initiatives aimed at fostering lasting peace and stability.
The Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Michael Onoja, disclosed the development while briefing Defence journalists on on-going military operations across the country at the Defence Headquarters on Thursday.
He said the renewed emphasis on CIMIC reflects its understanding that kinetic operations alone are insufficient to address the complex security challenges facing the country. Consequently, troops have continued to engage local communities through dialogue, humanitarian support, and conflict-prevention initiatives.
In Benue State, peace and security meetings were conducted in Logo, Guma, and Agatu Local Government Areas to address recurring communal tensions and promote peaceful coexistence. Similar engagements were also held in Takum and Donga LGAs of Taraba State, as well as Toto LGA of Nasarawa State, where military authorities worked with community leaders and stakeholders to build trust and encourage cooperation.
As part of efforts to support livelihoods and strengthen relationships with host communities, troops under Operation ENDURING PEACE carried out civil-military relations activities in Mangu LGA of Plateau State. These included the distribution of fertiliser to farmers through traditional and religious institutions such as the Christian Association of Nigeria and Jama’tul Islam.
In addition, a 17-kilometre marathon was organised in the area to promote unity and social cohesion among residents. The event attracted wide participation and featured prizes for top performers, serving as a platform to reinforce positive engagement between civilians and the military.
The military also launched targeted interventions in Southern Kaduna to secure the farming season, combining enhanced security presence with community collaboration to prevent conflict and ensure uninterrupted agricultural activities. The initiative is part of broader efforts to support food security while addressing the root causes of violence in affected areas.
The Chief of Defence Staff has directed all Theatre Commanders to fully integrate CIMIC into operational planning and execution. This includes facilitating the resettlement of displaced persons, promoting professionalism among troops, and strengthening public confidence in military operations.
The AFN reaffirmed that community cooperation remains a critical pillar of national security, pledging to sustain and expand CIMIC initiatives as part of a comprehensive approach to achieving inclusive and enduring peace nationwide.
