**Defence Headquarters Clarifies Chief of Defence Staff's Remarks on Terrorism in Borno and Yobe** The Defence Headquarters has issued a statement to clarify recent remarks made by the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, regarding terrorism in Borno and Yobe States. The clarification comes in response to what the Defence Headquarters describes as **misleading reports** that misrepresented the CDS's comments. According to a statement released by the Director of Defence Information, Maj.-Gen. Samaila Uba, on Thursday in Abuja, the reports in question **distorted** the CDS's remarks on counterterrorism efforts in the North-East. Uba stressed that at no point did the CDS **generalise or indict** the people of the two states. The Defence Headquarters maintains that the CDS's comments were focused on the importance of **community partnership, vigilance, and collective responsibility** in tackling evolving security challenges. As quoted by Uba, the CDS stated, "the fight against terrorism is not the responsibility of the military alone. It is a collective duty". Uba explained that the CDS's call for citizens to **take ownership** of the fight against terrorism aligns with global counterinsurgency practices that emphasize collaboration between security forces and local communities. He noted that the CDS referenced specific instances where criminal elements exploited community structures, including a case where wounded terrorists were discovered within a community after an attack on troops. The Defence spokesman clarified that this observation was not a **blanket accusation** but rather a factual example aimed at encouraging vigilance and cooperation among residents. He reiterated the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to defending the nation's territorial integrity and protecting law-abiding citizens. The Defence Headquarters also commended the resilience and support of Nigerians, especially communities in Borno and Yobe, as well as the role of journalists in the collective fight against terrorism. They urged media organisations to uphold professionalism by verifying facts and avoiding sensationalism capable of undermining public trust and national security efforts.