Chairman of the Security Committee for the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Convention and Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa, has assured delegates of adequate protection during the party’s convention scheduled for March 27 and 28.
Musa gave the assurance on Friday in Abuja during the inaugural meeting of the convention’s security committee, where he also directed security agencies to shift from reactive responses to a preventive security framework ahead of the event.
The minister stressed that the safety of thousands of delegates, party officials, and observers expected at the convention was paramount.
He described the convention as a crucial gathering for the ruling party to renew its leadership and strengthen its political direction.
According to him, the scale of the event demands a comprehensive and well-coordinated security strategy.
“Our approach must be preventive rather than reactive, ensuring that potential threats are identified and mitigated well in advance,” he said.
“The responsibility before us is both significant and strategic.
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“We are required to conduct a thorough assessment of potential risks and vulnerabilities, design an integrated security plan, and ensure that all operational arrangements are effectively synchronized.”
Musa emphasised that effective collaboration among security agencies would be key to the success of the operation, calling for a unified command structure.
He noted that coordination among the military, police and intelligence agencies must be seamless to avoid overlaps and security gaps.
“Each agency brings unique capabilities, experience, and resources to the table,” he said.
“Our responsibility as a committee is to ensure that these capabilities are properly harmonised.”
The minister added that the convention must demonstrate a high level of organisation and security expected of a governing political party.
“The Convention must reflect the highest standards of organization and security befitting a ruling party and a responsible national political institution,” he said.
With the convention approaching, Musa urged members of the committee to accelerate planning and deployment.
“Time is of the essence,” he cautioned.
“Our deliberations must be focused and our decisions timely so that all operational preparations can commence without delay.”
Members of the security committee drawn from key agencies include former Chief of Army Staff, Gen. Tukur Buratai; former Inspector-General of Police, Alhaji Abubakar Adamu; Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye; and Sen. Musiliu Obanikoro, who joined the meeting virtually.
