Abuja:The Minister of Defence, retired Gen. Christopher Musa, has called for a strategic repositioning of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) to address evolving security threats in the Lake Chad Basin. This appeal was made during the opening of a High-Level International Forum on the MNJTF and regional security.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, the event, held in collaboration with the Defence Headquarters and the Irregular Warfare Centre of the National Defence College, focused on adapting the MNJTF to the changing security landscape. Musa highlighted the need for the force to move beyond past performance assessments and concentrate on enhancing its effectiveness for the future.
Musa acknowledged the MNJTF’s significant impact in combating terrorism and facilitating cross-border trade in the region. However, he also noted the challenges posed by shifting security dynamics and varying levels of international support. The forum’s theme, ‘Repositioning the MNJTF to Effectively Combat Evolving Threat Dynamics in the Lake Chad Region,’ was deemed timely given these challenges.
Participants at the forum were urged to examine the structure, capabilities, and funding of the MNJTF to strengthen its future operations. Musa emphasized the commitment of Nigeria’s Ministry of Defence and Armed Forces to collaborate with neighboring countries and international partners to bolster the task force.
The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, highlighted the forum’s role in fostering cooperation among stakeholders, emphasizing the need for adaptable responses to complex security challenges. He called for regular reviews to ensure the MNJTF’s continued relevance and effectiveness.
Additionally, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Amb. Sola Enikanolaiye, underscored the importance of intelligence sharing and sustainable funding for regional security efforts. He advocated for innovative funding solutions and stressed the need to address governance and development issues alongside security measures.
The forum gathered representatives from various regional and international entities, including the African Union and the Lake Chad Basin Commission, reflecting a broad commitment to enhancing regional security through collective efforts. The MNJTF includes troops from Nigeria, Cameroon, Chad, Niger, and Benin.