ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), has assured that the Federal Government of Nigeria and security agencies will intensify efforts to secure the release of Nigerians currently held by kidnappers across the country.
Musa gave the assurance on Saturday while speaking after being conferred with the Southern Kaduna Grand Commander award at the 2026 Southern Kaduna Festival.
The minister acknowledged that several citizens remain in captivity and pledged continued commitment to their safe return.
“As we speak, I know we still have some of our brothers and sisters that have been kidnapped, abducted. Wherever they are, they will know that we are always with them. And we will do whatever it takes to ensure that we free them,” he said.
He stressed that collaboration among citizens and security agencies remains critical in tackling insecurity nationwide.
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“And we can only do that if we work together in unity. No evil can overcome us because God is on our side,” Musa added.
The Defence Minister urged Nigerians to support security agencies with credible intelligence, noting that collective action was essential in addressing kidnapping and other security threats.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces and other security agencies to protecting lives and maintaining national stability.
“Together with the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies, we remain committed to protecting our nation, defending its territorial integrity, and creating a secure environment in which citizens can pursue their legitimate aspirations,” he said.
Musa also said ongoing efforts were being made to address insecurity across various regions, stressing that security remains the foundation for economic growth and national development.
Speaking on the recognition he received, the minister expressed gratitude to his community for honouring him.
“Awards received elsewhere are certainly appreciations, but recognition from the community that nurtured you, shaped your values, and contributed to your journey carries a special significance.
“It speaks not only to achievement, but also to belonging. It is therefore with profound gratitude that I accept the award on behalf of myself, my family, my beautiful wife, and all other recipients,” he said.
He further called on communities to work closely with security agencies, alleging that some criminal elements receive assistance from informants within local areas.
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“We have people that are giving them information, we have people that are their informants, we have people that are giving them logistics for them to come. It’s important that we identify these people and bring them out,” he warned.
Musa urged citizens to report suspicious activities promptly, stressing that timely intelligence would improve security operations.
His remarks come amid rising concerns over recent kidnapping incidents, including the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oyo State and appeals from victims’ families seeking urgent government intervention.