President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has pledged to use his constitutional powers to enhance and equip the Nigerian military further. Speaking at the National Defence College graduation ceremony in Abuja, Tinubu, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, underscored the critical role of effective leadership in tackling Nigeria’s multifaceted security and development challenges.
During his address, President Tinubu acknowledged the importance of strategic leadership in navigating the complexities of Nigeria’s security landscape. He expressed his commitment to ensuring that the Nigerian military receives the necessary resources and support to maintain its operational effectiveness.
This pledge comes in light of the significant sacrifices and achievements made by the armed forces in safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity and securing the lives and properties of its citizens.
The President also highlighted concerns about the state of infrastructure at the National Defence College’s permanent site in Piwoyi, Abuja. He noted that while his administration has made substantial progress in developing the site, there remains more work to be done.
Tinubu reassured attendees that his administration is dedicated to completing the ongoing construction and upgrading efforts at the college, reflecting a commitment to enhancing the institution’s capacity to train future leaders. Tinubu praised the graduates of Course 32 for their contributions to research aimed at leveraging Nigeria’s mining industry to bolster national security and development.
He mentioned that their recommendations are being actively considered and integrated into strategic planning, as part of his administration’s broader goal of achieving a “golden era” for Nigeria through robust security assets and institutional reforms.
The President also highlighted various accomplishments of his administration, including the implementation of a new national minimum wage. This policy is expected to benefit not only civilian workers but also personnel within the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies.
He reiterated his administration’s efforts to address critical issues such as crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta. These measures are intended to enhance oil production and contribute to economic stability.
Furthermore, President Tinubu emphasized the administration’s commitment to creating a favorable business environment in the mining sector, which is essential for national security and development. He outlined ongoing collaborations with international partners to develop strategies that will unlock the sector’s full potential.
Addressing the graduates, Tinubu urged them to uphold values of excellence, courage, patriotism, and integrity. He encouraged them to apply their newly acquired knowledge and skills to tackle Nigeria’s diverse challenges effectively.
Rear Admiral Olumuyiwa Olotu, Commandant of the National Defence College, noted that the 111 graduates from Course 32 will play a crucial role in advancing Nigeria’s strategic leadership across various sectors. The course included a comprehensive 9-module curriculum covering research methodology, science and technology, conflict and war studies, policy formulation analysis, and strategic leadership.
The graduation class featured 19 international participants from countries such as India, Brazil, South Africa, and Ghana, reflecting Nigeria’s commitment to fostering global cooperation in defense and security matters. The ceremony was attended by notable figures including Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru, Finance Minister Wale Edun, and other senior military and government officials.
