Defence Minister Urges Graduating Officers to Adapt Faster Than Those Seeking to Undermine National Security
Linus Aleke in Abuja The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd.), has urged graduating military officers to strengthen their ability to anticipate risks, identify vulnerabilities and adapt more
Abuja, Nigeria - The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (ret.), addressed graduating military officers at the Army War College Nigeria's graduation ceremony. He urged them to anticipate risks, identify vulnerabilities and adapt faster than those who aim to undermine national security. Musa emphasized that the duty of officers extends beyond reacting to threats once they arise.
Speaking at the event held in Abuja, the Defence Minister highlighted Nigeria's efforts to develop indigenous defense capabilities across various sectors while forging stronger relationships with trusted international partners. He stated, "Our task is not just to respond to threats as they emerge. We must enhance our capacity to foresee risks, pinpoint vulnerabilities and swiftly adapt over adversaries trying to weaken our national security."
He added that successful commanders should blend professional expertise with a thirst for knowledge and the bravery to make tough choices under stress. Musa acknowledged that the college had equipped the graduates with these skills. He stated that future commanders must possess both professional proficiency and intellectual curiosity, coupled with the strength to make difficult decisions in high-pressure situations.
According to General Musa, Nigeria is actively working on building the ability to comprehend, maintain, adapt, and produce systems tailored to its operational requirements. This necessitates close collaboration among the Armed Forces, universities, research institutions, defense industries, and Nigerian innovators. He pointed out that for effective hybrid warfare, emphasis should be placed on unmanned aerial systems, artificial intelligence, cyber capabilities, and data analytics.
He concluded by asserting that the college's worth is determined not just by the diplomas handed out, but by the sound judgments exhibited by officers in leadership roles and the outcomes they achieve in the field.
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