By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA — The Association of Northern Nigeria Students, ANNS, has urged Nigerians to rise to the challenge of insecurity by approaching the nation’s security situation with objectivity, while expressing a vote of confidence in the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (retd).

The students said the security challenges confronting the country required citizens to remain calm, responsible and objective, rather than lose sight of the need to support institutions constitutionally mandated to protect the nation.

In a statement signed by ANNS President, Comrade Baba Mahadi, the association said Musa had demonstrated courage, patriotism and commitment to the peace, unity and security of Nigeria.

Mahadi said the association believed citizens had an important role to play in the national response to insecurity.

“Nigeria belongs to its citizens and we the citizens must rise to be objective in our views to face the security challenges bedevilling the nation,” he said.

The association said Musa had, throughout his years of service, demonstrated dedication to protecting the lives of Nigerians and addressing issues affecting national security.

It urged Nigerians to remain peaceful and allow due process to prevail, particularly at a time when truth and accountability were essential in discussions around the country’s security.

“At a time when truth and accountability are essential, we encourage Nigerians to remain peaceful, allow due process to prevail, and continue supporting our security institutions in their constitutional responsibilities,” the association said.

The students also reaffirmed their confidence in Musa’s leadership since his appointment as Defence Minister by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying he had shown capacity in the role.

The association linked its position to the broader responsibility of citizens to confront the security challenges facing the country while supporting security institutions in carrying out their constitutional duties.

“General Christopher Gwabin Musa has been able to show capacity since his appointment as the Defence Minister under the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu renewed hope agenda Government,” the statement said.

The group reaffirmed support for Musa, alongside its appeal for Nigerians to engage the national security debate objectively and peacefully.

The association said the country’s security situation demanded responsible citizen engagement, while urging Nigerians to allow established processes to address issues of concern.