By Bavoriat Clara
The Commandant of the National Defence College (NDC), Rear Admiral James Okosu, has formally declared open the maiden edition of the Defence and Security Management Course 1, describing it as a strategic and timely initiative aimed at sharpening the leadership capacity of security managers in addressing Nigeria’s increasingly complex security environment.
Represented at the event by the Deputy Commandant and Director of Studies, Major General Kelvin Ukandu, Rear Admiral Okosu explained that the course was carefully designed to deepen participants’ strategic understanding of defence and security management, foster stronger inter-agency cooperation, and promote good governance within the security sector. He stressed that the programme was coming at a critical moment when the nation is confronted with a broad spectrum of hybrid threats, ranging from terrorism and kidnapping for ransom to cybercrime and climate-induced security risks.
Earlier in his remarks, the Provost of the Centre for Strategic Research and Studies, Professor Adam Ahmed, underscored the significance of the course as a vital platform to equip participants with the requisite knowledge and practical skills for addressing defence and security issues at both strategic and operational levels.
He urged participants to take full advantage of the training, noting that its ultimate purpose is to broaden their perspectives and strengthen their ability to make meaningful contributions to national, regional, and global security.
Professor Ahmed further commended Major General Ukandu for his commitment to realigning and strengthening the Centre’s objectives in line with the mandate of the College. He described the Deputy Commandant’s engagement as forward-looking and reassuring, particularly in ensuring that the institution continues to serve as a hub for strategic thought and professional development.
Delivering a lecture on the theme “Effective versus Ineffective Leadership,” Major General Ukandu drew a sharp contrast between leaders who rely on coercion, intimidation, and suppression, and those who inspire confidence, build trust, and lead by example. He reminded participants that Nigeria’s current security challenges demand leaders who combine vision with integrity, empathy, and strategic foresight. According to him, only effective leadership rooted in values can inspire unity of purpose and deliver lasting solutions to contemporary threats.
The Defence and Security Management Course 1 will run as an intensive programme featuring lectures, seminars, and interactive sessions. It is structured to build the capacity of participants to understand security from a multi-dimensional perspective, thereby preparing them to assume greater responsibilities in safeguarding national security while contributing to peace and stability in the West African sub-region and beyond.
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