President Bola Tinubu has committed to utilizing his constitutional authority to further enhance, arm, and empower the Nigerian military.
He emphasized the critical role of effective leadership in tackling the multifaceted security and developmental issues facing Nigeria.
This commitment was articulated through a statement from Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media & Communications (Office of The Vice President), during the graduation ceremony for Course 32 at the National Defence College in Abuja.
Vice President Kashim Shettima represented President Tinubu at the event, where the President lamented the inadequate infrastructure at the National Defence College’s permanent site in Piwoyi, Abuja. He acknowledged the progress made by his administration while stressing that further improvements are necessary.
In his address, President Tinubu reaffirmed his dedication to upgrading the college’s facilities and ensuring that the military remains well-equipped. He stated, “The members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria have made invaluable sacrifices and achieved considerable successes in safeguarding our nation’s integrity and protecting the lives and properties of our citizens. I will utilize all powers at my disposal to ensure the military is adequately resourced.”
He also expressed gratitude to the Course 32 graduates for their contributions to research aimed at leveraging Nigeria’s mining industry to bolster national security and development. “We are already integrating your recommendations as we strive to realize our vision for a golden era supported by substantial security assets and collaborative reforms,” he mentioned.
The President lauded the National Defence College for its innovative approach to education, which he believes is pivotal in addressing Nigeria’s national security and development challenges.
Highlighting notable advancements during his administration, President Tinubu pointed to the introduction of a new national minimum wage, which he stated would benefit not only civilian workers but also military and security personnel.
He continued, “We are diligently working to combat the issues of crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta, and I have directed the Defence Headquarters and other agencies to address these challenges swiftly. This will enhance oil and gas production and contribute to economic stability.”
President Tinubu reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering a conducive business environment to maximize the potential of the mining sector, collaborating with international partners to develop effective strategies for national security and development.
He encouraged the Course 32 graduates to embody the values of excellence, courage, patriotism, and integrity, urging them to apply their newfound knowledge to the myriad challenges Nigeria faces.
Earlier, Rear Admiral Olumuyiwa Olotu, Commandant of the National Defence College, remarked that the 111 graduates are expected to play a vital role in strengthening Nigeria’s strategic leadership across various sectors. He noted that the mission of the college is to cultivate future leaders equipped with the necessary knowledge and analytical capabilities to navigate the evolving defense and security landscape.
The graduates hailed from various national agencies, including the Nigerian armed forces, Nigeria Police Force, and the Department of State Security, showcasing a diverse array of expertise within the program.
