President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has pledged to accelerate the indigenous production of arms and ammunition as part of efforts to reinforce Nigeria’s security framework and institutions.
Gatekeepers News reports that the President, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the graduation ceremony of Course 33 of the National Defence College (NDC) in Abuja, stressed the importance of resilient institutions for national survival.
He said, “Strong institutions uphold the rule of law, safeguard citizens’ rights, promote accountability, and deliver essential services.”
The president added that they are essential for managing conflict, countering threats, and building resilience against instability.
Tinubu highlighted that his administration places institutional capacity at the core of national security and development.
He said, “ They ensure sound governance, effective planning, and the delivery of policies that serve the common good. This is why this administration has made institutional strengthening a national priority, and I trust that the knowledge you have acquired here will be deployed to fortify the institutions of Nigeria and of your respective nations.”
While commending the NDC’s contribution to research and human capital development, the President emphasized that boosting local defence manufacturing is crucial to Nigeria’s future.
He said, “ I have directed that relevant stakeholders study your recommendations and harvest the strategies you proposed, because strengthening indigenous manufacturing is indispensable to our nation’s security and development.”
The president further assured that his government is committed to completing the NDC’s permanent site in Piwoyi.
He said, “While progress has been made, much remains to be done. I assure you that this administration is committed to completing the permanent site, to ensure that the College continues to deliver strategic training not only for Nigeria but also for allied nations. When fully equipped, this College can, and should, evolve into a Defence Postgraduate University.”
Acknowledging economic progress and persisting challenges, Tinubu noted, “Graduates of Course 33, you step out today into a world more volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous than when you began your course last year.”
“Global economic headwinds, the war in Ukraine, the disruptive force of emerging technologies, the threats in cyberspace, and the unsettling resurgence of unconstitutional changes of government in our region form the backdrop of your service.”
“ But you have been prepared for this moment. You have been trained to think and act strategically. You have been equipped to lead with vision and courage.”
The President also pointed to renewed investor confidence, citing a 48 percent year-on-year growth in the stock market, its best performance in nearly 30 years, while acknowledging inflation and food insecurity as issues his administration must continue to tackle.
Earlier, NDC Commandant Rear Admiral J.O. Okosu welcomed the President, stressing that the graduands had been adequately prepared to confront security challenges such as banditry and oil theft.
Deputy Commandant Major General Kevin Ukandu added that participants were trained in defense management, strategy formulation, command, and geopolitics to enhance Nigeria’s national security objectives.
