The armed forces are committed to supporting regional development initiatives as a means of fostering lasting peace and national stability.

The chief of defence staff, Christopher Musa, gave the commitment during a courtesy visit to the Minister of State for Regional Development, Maigari Ahmadu, at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja, according to a statement on Wednesday.

He said the visit was aimed at fostering mutual understanding and strengthening civil-military cooperation for national development.

The defence chief emphasised the strong link between peace and development, stressing that communities with more development often enjoy more peace.

He reaffirmed the armed forces’ unwavering commitment to supporting the ministry’s regional initiatives and making meaningful contributions to national growth.

Mr Musa expressed gratitude to the ministry for its assistance in training the special forces, which will enhance the operational capacity of the military and improve national security.

He assured the ministry of continued collaboration and support from the Defence Headquarters to ensure it effectively delivers on its constitutional mandate.

In his response, the minister described the visit as historic and praised the military for its sacrifices in safeguarding Nigeria’s unity and territorial integrity.

He also paid tribute to the gallant officers and soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of the nation.

Mr Ahmadu lauded the military’s initiatives, particularly its educational support programmes, including the establishment of schools for children of repentant insurgents.

He expressed confidence in the Nigerian military’s capacity to overcome the country’s current security challenges.

(NAN)