Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), and Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, have stressed that quality education, responsible citizenship, and stronger collaboration between communities and security agencies are critical to overcoming banditry, terrorism, and other security threats confronting Nigeria.
Gatekeepers News reports that the duo made the remarks during the inauguration of the Kaduna Christian Academy, a faith-based school donated to the Christian community in Kaduna by friends of the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Oluwatosin Ajayi.
The initiative follows a similar intervention in May 2025, when an Islamic school was established for the Muslim community in Danbushiya, Chikun Local Government Area, as part of efforts to promote education and peaceful coexistence.
Speaking at the event, Musa described the academy as a strategic non-kinetic approach to tackling insecurity, noting that military operations alone cannot guarantee lasting peace. According to him, ignorance, hopelessness, and lack of opportunities often create conditions that fuel extremism and criminality.
The Defence Minister said education remains one of the strongest tools for countering violent ideologies and building resilient communities, describing the newly commissioned school as a “weapon of mass instruction” capable of transforming lives and strengthening national security. He added that an educated population is better positioned to reject criminal influences, support development, and contribute positively to society.
Musa also praised the DSS for complementing its traditional security responsibilities with initiatives aimed at community development and social stability. He said the agency had demonstrated that security extends beyond surveillance and arrests to include building trust, creating opportunities, and addressing the root causes of insecurity.
The minister urged parents to prioritise their children’s education and encouraged citizens to support security agencies with credible and timely intelligence.
He warned that terrorists and bandits often depend on local collaborators for information, logistics, and other forms of assistance, stressing that public cooperation remains vital to dismantling criminal networks.
Musa further commended Governor Sani for promoting inclusion, development, and peaceful coexistence across Kaduna State, noting that improved cooperation among federal, state, and local authorities has contributed to security gains recorded in the state.
Representing the Governor at the event, Kaduna State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, James Kanyip, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to expanding access to quality education.
He described the academy as a symbol of hope and transformation, noting that investment in education remains essential for human capital development and long-term prosperity.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) for the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory, Rev. Joseph Hayab, said the school was established in recognition of the crucial role education plays in addressing insecurity, poverty, and other social challenges.
He noted that many communities still struggle with inadequate educational facilities and economic hardship, making initiatives such as the academy particularly significant.
Hayab explained that Kaduna Christian Academy would focus not only on academic excellence but also on developing character, discipline, leadership, faith, and compassion among students. He described the project as an investment in the future of young Nigerians and a pathway to greater opportunities.
In a goodwill message, the Chief Imam of Sultan Bello Mosque, Prof. Suleiman Adam, commended the DSS Director-General and his associates for supporting both Christian and Muslim communities through similar educational projects.
He said the initiative would strengthen interfaith harmony, mutual understanding, and peaceful coexistence in Kaduna State.
