**Defence Headquarters Clarifies CDS Oluyede's Remarks on Counter-Terrorism Efforts** The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has issued a statement to address a circulated report that misrepresented the recent comments of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Olufemi Oluyede regarding counter-terrorism operations in Borno and Yobe States. According to the statement, the report was misleading and had the potential to misinform the public and undermine ongoing counter-terrorism efforts. The statement, released by Director of Defence Information Major General Samaila Uba, clarified that the CDS never indicted or generalised that the people of Borno and Yobe States are complicit in terrorism. Instead, General Oluyede emphasised the importance of community partnership, vigilance, and collective responsibility in tackling evolving security challenges. He noted, _"The fight against terrorism is not the responsibility of the military alone. It is a collective duty. The people of Borno and Yobe must reject terrorism in all its forms and actively support security agencies with credible and timely information."_ The CDS' call for residents to "take ownership" of counter-terrorism aligns with internationally recognised counterinsurgency practices, which stress that sustainable security is achievable only through close collaboration between security forces and local communities. General Oluyede highlighted instances where criminal elements exploit community structures to support terrorist activities, citing a town where some wounded terrorists were found hiding within the community. "Our people must resolve that this has to come to an end," the CDS stated, underscoring the need for vigilance and active support for security operations. The DHQ reaffirmed that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain fully committed to defending the country's territorial integrity and protecting all law-abiding citizens. The military continues to record significant successes in ongoing operations across the North-East and other theatres. Major General Uba urged media organisations and content creators to exercise professionalism, verify facts, and avoid sensationalism or misrepresentation that could create tension or erode public trust. The DHQ also expressed appreciation for the resilience, cooperation, and sacrifices of the people of Borno, Yobe, and all Nigerians in the fight against terrorism, and acknowledged the critical role of journalists in supporting national security efforts. The statement concluded, "Together, we shall overcome the enemies of our nation."