By EMMANUEL ONWUBIKO

We in our organisation (Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria) wrote to the office of Chief of Civil Military Relations, Nigerian Army, Maj.-General GU Chibuisi, who has just been appointed to that position by the Chief of Army staff, and he didn?t hesitate to ask us to come on Tuesday of this week.

Getting to his exquisitely arranged office, we were well received and the meeting proceeded as scheduled just as discussion centred around the strategic essence of bridging the gap between the military and the civilians. Often the disagreements, conflicts that do come up during interfaces between the military and the rest of us who are civilians (not bloody civilians) and the military are often generated by the absence of any sort of harmonious understanding that every citizen of Nigeria is obliged to be law abiding and relates with each other in atmospheres of conviviality and mutual respect.

This gentleman who is the new head of that department in the Nigerian Army created a good image of the Army just as he equally highlighted the many reasons for the citizens of Nigeria to embrace the military as their own so as to create atmospheres of security, stability, peace and progress of the nation and her citizenry. The meeting made us to realise that continuous dialogues between the military and the civilians are the strategic methodology to promote and protect human rights and the rule of law in our country.

The truth Is that the intricate dance between civilian authorities and military establishments has shaped the political and social fabric of nations across centuries. From the days of the Roman Empire, where Augustus Caesar transformed the Praetorian Guards into powerful political actors, to contemporary societies grappling with military influence, civil-military relations have been pivotal in defining governance structures. This writer seeks to delve into the core functions of civil-military relations, evaluate their achievements, and set an agenda for Major General G. U. Chibuisi, the newly appointed head of the Department of Civil-Military Relations.

Civil-military relations are fundamentally designed to ensure a harmonious balance between the military?s role in national defense and the civilian government?s authority over state affairs. This delicate equilibrium is essential to prevent the military from overstepping its bounds, which could lead to authoritarian rule or political instability. The primary functions of civil-military relations include fostering mutual respect, promoting collaboration, and ensuring that military operations align with democratic principles and civilian oversight. These objectives aim to create an environment where both entities work synergistically to safeguard national interests while upholding the rule of law and democratic values.

Since the establishment of the Department of Civil-Military Affairs (DCMA) in December 2010, significant strides have been made to bridge the gap between the military and civilian populations. For the purpose of clarity, the Department of Civil-Military Affairs (DCMA) is a department of the Nigerian Army. The DCMA is responsible for civil-military relations (CMR) in Nigeria. CMR is the relationship between the military and civilian society in a country.

Hence, the DCMA was tasked with promoting better understanding, trust, and cooperation between these two critical components of society. Its initiatives have included community outreach programs, educational campaigns, and collaborative projects aimed at demystifying military operations and fostering a sense of shared purpose. These efforts have contributed to a gradual shift in public perception, reducing the historical mistrust and suspicion that often characterized civil-military interactions.

However, despite these achievements, challenges persist. The gap between the military and the civilian populace remains pronounced in many areas, often fueled by historical grievances, cultural differences, and a lack of sustained engagement. Incidents of human rights abuses, heavy-handed security operations, and limited transparency in military activities have occasionally undermined public confidence and strained relations. Moreover, the bureaucratic nature of civil-military structures can sometimes hinder the timely implementation of initiatives designed to enhance cooperation and understanding.

The appointment of Major General G. U. Chibuisi as the new head of the DCMA presents a unique opportunity to reinvigorate the department?s activities and address these lingering challenges. Major General Chibuisi?s extensive experience in the army, coupled with his impressive academic credentials and exposure to diverse operational environments, positions him well to lead this critical endeavor. His fresh perspective and dynamic leadership style are expected to breathe new life into the department?s operations, fostering a more proactive and inclusive approach to civil-military relations.

To achieve meaningful progress, Major General Chibuisi must prioritize several key areas. First, he should focus on enhancing communication channels between the military and civilian communities. Effective communication is the cornerstone of trust-building, and it requires a commitment to transparency, openness, and active listening. Regular town hall meetings, public forums, and interactive platforms can provide valuable opportunities for dialogue, allowing civilians to voice their concerns, ask questions, and gain a better understanding of military operations and objectives.

Second, there is a need to strengthen community engagement initiatives. The military should not be seen solely as an instrument of force but as an integral part of the society it serves. By participating in community development projects, educational programmes, and humanitarian activities, the military can demonstrate its commitment to the well-being of the civilian population. Such initiatives not only improve public perception but also create a sense of shared responsibility and partnership between the military and the communities they protect.

Education and awareness campaigns are also vital. Many misconceptions and stereotypes about the military stem from a lack of knowledge and understanding. By integrating civil-military education into school curricula, organizing public seminars, and leveraging media platforms, the DCMA can help demystify military roles and responsibilities. Highlighting positive stories of military contributions to national development and peacekeeping efforts can further enhance the public?s appreciation of the military?s role in society.

Moreover, Major General Chibuisi should advocate for policies that promote accountability and uphold human rights within military operations. A professional military force is one that respects the rule of law and operates within the confines of democratic principles. Establishing robust mechanisms for monitoring and addressing misconduct, providing regular training on human rights and ethical conduct, and fostering a culture of accountability are essential steps in building public trust and confidence.

Collaboration with civil society organizations, non-governmental organizations, and other stakeholders is another critical area of focus. These entities often have valuable insights, resources, and networks that can complement military efforts in promoting peace, security, and development. By fostering partnerships and encouraging joint initiatives, the DCMA can create a more holistic approach to addressing the complex challenges facing civil-military relations.

In setting an agenda for his tenure, Major General Chibuisi must also recognize the importance of adapting to the evolving security landscape. The nature of threats facing nations today is multifaceted, encompassing not only traditional military conflicts but also issues such as cyber security, terrorism, and public health crises. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that integrates military capabilities with civilian expertise and resources. By promoting inter-agency collaboration and multi-sectoral partnerships, the DCMA can enhance the nation?s resilience and preparedness in the face of emerging threats.

Ultimately, the goal of bridging the gap between khaki and babanriga is to create a society where the military and civilian populations coexist in mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation. This vision requires sustained effort, visionary leadership, and a genuine commitment to the principles of democracy and human rights. Major General Chibuisi?s appointment marks a new chapter in the journey toward achieving this goal, and with the right strategies and dedication, the DCMA can make significant strides in strengthening civil-military relations.

As we reflect on the historical context and current dynamics of civil-military relations, it is clear that progress has been made, but much work remains to be done. The legacy of past conflicts, coupled with contemporary challenges, underscores the need for continuous engagement, dialogue, and reform. Major General Chibuisi has the opportunity to leave a lasting impact by fostering a culture of collaboration, transparency, and mutual respect between the military and civilian sectors.

In conclusion, bridging the gap between khaki and babanriga is not just about policy and programs; it is about building relationships, fostering trust, and creating a shared vision for the future. It is about recognizing that the military and civilian populations are not separate entities but integral parts of a cohesive society. With strong leadership, innovative approaches, and a steadfast commitment to the principles of civil-military relations, we can create a more unified, resilient, and prosperous nation.

?Emmanuel Onwubiko is Founder of the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) and was a National Commissioner of the National Human Rights Commission of Nigeria (NHRC).

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