By Bavoriat Clara
The Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), OFR, has called on Nigerian students to play an active role in promoting national security, stressing that safeguarding the country is a collective responsibility.
General Musa made the appeal while addressing students from the Department of Political Science and Diplomacy of Veritas University Abuja during an educational visit to the Ministry of Defence in Abuja.
The Defence Minister urged the students, as future leaders, to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities within their communities. He emphasized that national unity and security are not solely the responsibility of government but require the participation of all citizens.
During an interactive session, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), OFR responded to questions on technological gaps, food security, and Nigeria’s recent Memorandum of Understanding with Turkey.
He explained that the Ministry is strengthening collaboration with the Federal Ministries of Agriculture and Science, Technology and Innovation to address technological challenges and boost food production through mechanized farming.
On defence capabilities, the Minister disclosed that efforts are underway to enhance local production of military equipment through the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria. He noted that skilled Nigerians are being integrated into the system to develop technologies such as drones, describing local production as the most sustainable solution to procurement challenges, particularly amid global constraints linked to the Iran crisis.
General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), OFR also cautioned students against engaging in cybercrime, urging them instead to channel their creativity and skills toward national development. He further advocated for wider access to military training, noting that it instills discipline, resilience, and a balanced perspective on life.
Speaking on Nigeria’s defence partnership with Turkey, the Defence Minister highlighted the country’s over four decades of experience in counter-terrorism and expressed optimism that Nigeria would benefit from its technology and operational strategies.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, welcomed the 54 students and their lecturer, explaining that the visit was designed to expose them to Nigeria’s defence architecture and potential career paths in strategic studies, intelligence, and national security.
In a remark on behalf of the students, the group leader described the visit as enlightening, noting that it enhanced their understanding of the Ministry’s role in ensuring peace, stability, and national development.
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