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Nigeria’s Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni, has charged officers of the Army War College Nigeria (AWCN), Course 9/2025, to demonstrate courage, integrity, and humility as they assume new leadership roles in the nation’s defence architecture.

Delivering his keynote address as the Special Guest of Honour at the graduation ceremony held on Thursday, 9th October 2025, at the College Auditorium in Abuja, the Minister described the event as “a true celebration of intellectual rigour, national investment, and military excellence.”

Badaru lauded the Chief of Army Staff, the Commandant, and the faculty of the College for their commitment to developing operational-level leaders, noting that the institution has become pivotal to Nigeria’s military professionalism and strategic leadership development.

“The Army War College remains central to strengthening Nigeria’s defence capabilities and building a generation of officers capable of confronting today’s complex security challenges,” the Minister said.

He congratulated the graduating officers for successfully completing the demanding academic and operational programme, which combines leadership studies, strategy, and applied military science. According to him, the graduates now bear a higher moral and professional responsibility to lead by example and safeguard national security with honour.

“Lead with integrity, courage, and humility. Uphold the values of discipline and patriotism, and never lose sight of the sacred trust placed in you as guardians of our nation’s security,” Badaru admonished.

The Minister emphasised the need for lifelong learning and adaptability among military leaders, given the dynamic nature of modern warfare and the rapid evolution of technology. He reminded the graduands that continuous professional education remains essential to effective military leadership in the 21st century.

In his remarks, Badaru expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his unwavering commitment to military reform and security sector modernization under the Renewed Hope Agenda. He highlighted that the President’s support has enabled better joint training, operational synergy among the services, and enhanced regional security cooperation.

“The Renewed Hope Agenda places you — the graduates — at the heart of our national security transformation. You represent the new face of military professionalism driving towards a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Nigeria,” he stated.

The Defence Minister also acknowledged the sacrifices of the officers’ families, describing them as “the unseen heroes whose patience, resilience, and prayers sustain the Armed Forces.” He further commended the participation of allied officers from other African countries, noting that their inclusion fosters greater regional solidarity and strengthens multilateral cooperation in addressing continental security challenges.

Concluding his address, Badaru urged the graduands to embody professionalism, discipline, and patriotism as they return to their various commands and formations.

“Always remember that you are the guardians of our nation’s security. Serve with pride, uphold our values, and be worthy ambassadors of this prestigious institution,” he said.

The event marked another milestone in the Army War College’s commitment to shaping the next generation of strategic leaders, with Course 9/2025 producing a diverse cohort of officers from Nigeria and sister African nations.

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