The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has urged Nigerians to use social media responsibly to enhance public vigilance and support intelligence sharing in the fight against terrorism and insecurity across the country.

Speaking in Maiduguri on Saturday at a one-day Multi-Sector Conference on Countering Extremist Ideology, Insurgency, and Terrorism, General Musa emphasized the critical role of citizens, especially youth, in national security.

“Silence is no longer an option. The people are critical stakeholders in intelligence gathering. Sometimes, all it takes is one phone call to make the difference,” he said.

Musa encouraged students to harness digital platforms for promoting peace, countering extremist narratives, supporting security forces, and spreading knowledge. He also officially inaugurated the Students Against Violent Extremism (SAVE 1 and 2) Task Forces, describing the initiative as a grassroots strategy to build young peace ambassadors and shield communities from radicalization.

With over 70% of the North-East population made up of youth, he highlighted their central role in reclaiming society from violence.

“Students are the torchbearers of new values. Through peaceful advocacy, peer influence, and collaboration with security agencies, you can help shield your communities from radicalism,” he said.

General Musa praised President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for its impact on restoring stability in the North-East, and acknowledged the support of Borno and Yobe State governments in ongoing security efforts.

Despite recent violent attacks in the region, he urged Nigerians not to despair. “Let us use social media, TV, and radio to counter extremist narratives and promote peace. The future is bright when the youth rise for peace,” he concluded.