Human security, gender no longer secondary in military planning, says Defence Chief

Christopher  Musa, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), has reaffirmed the critical role of human security and gender considerations in modern military operations, emphasizing that they are no longer secondary but essential to strategic planning and sustainable peace.

Speaking at the opening of the Human Security and Gender Adviser Course on Monday, at the National Defence College, Abuja,  Musa, represented by Olusanya Abiodun Bankole, Chief of Civil-Military Relations, stressed that contemporary security challenges require not just military strength, but also a deep understanding of social, economic, and political dynamics that influence stability and resilience.

The eight-day course, organized by the Defence Headquarters in collaboration with the British Defence Staff, is designed to equip military personnel with the necessary knowledge and skills to integrate human security and gender perspectives into operational strategies.

In his address, Musa highlighted that incorporating gender sensitivity and human security into military planning is crucial for shaping the future of operations and ensuring that military engagements contribute positively to national and regional stability.

“This course will provide the knowledge and tools to analyze security challenges through a gender-sensitive and human-centric lens.

“By embracing non-kinetic strategies, we can foster inclusivity and ensure that conflicts are navigated with respect for all, while promoting trust and sustainable peace”, the CDS stated.

He urged participants to actively engage in the training and apply the lessons learned in their respective units and deployments, emphasizing that integrating human security and gender perspectives would enhance the professionalism and credibility of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Addressing journalists,  Mark Pearsall of the UK Outreach Group’s 11 Brigades CIMIC unit expressed optimism about the course’s impact.

“At the end of this training, participants will have a solid grasp of human security, gender dynamics in conflict and conflict prevention, and how these elements can be incorporated into military planning,” he stated.

As security threats evolve, the military said it will continue to adapt by integrating human security principles into policies, training, and operations, ensuring a more strategic and people-focused approach to national security.