This post has already been read at least 11137 times!
Nigeria’s Honourable Minister of Defence, Christopher Gwabin Musa, has declared that the country’s university system remains pivotal to strengthening national defence and fostering long-term strategic resilience, stressing that the evolving nature of global threats now demands a knowledge-driven approach to security.
According to a statement signed by Queeneth Iheoma-Hart, Chief Information Officer, on behalf of the Director of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry of Defence, General Musa made this assertion while delivering the Convocation Lecture at the Combined Convocation Ceremony of Akwa Ibom State University, held at its main campus in Ikot Akpaden, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
Addressing graduands, academics, and distinguished guests, the Defence Minister underscored the shifting dynamics of modern security threats, noting that terrorism, cyber warfare, and other asymmetric challenges have significantly altered the landscape of national defence in the 21st century. According to him, these emerging threats require a comprehensive and intellectually grounded response anchored in education, innovation, and technological advancement. 
“National defence today is not solely the preserve of the armed forces,” General Musa stated. “It requires a whole-of-nation approach in which our universities play a strategic role; producing skilled manpower, advancing research and innovation, and cultivating the values that underpin stability and cohesion.”
He emphasized the urgent need for stronger collaboration between the defence establishment, government institutions, and the academic community to effectively respond to the country’s evolving security challenges. The Minister highlighted the importance of sustained investment in the education sector, noting that aligning academic programmes with national security priorities—particularly in fields such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and data systems—is critical to building a robust defence architecture. 
General Musa further advocated for structured partnerships between universities and defence institutions, explaining that such collaborations would enhance Nigeria’s capacity to develop a modern, self-reliant, and responsive national security framework.
Reinforcing the concept of collective responsibility, the Defence Minister reminded his audience that safeguarding national security extends beyond the military, calling on all sectors of society—especially educational institutions—to actively contribute to the nation’s stability and resilience.
In his charge to the graduating students, General Musa urged them to embrace their roles as future leaders and nation builders. He encouraged them to uphold discipline, pursue innovation, and demonstrate a strong sense of duty in advancing Nigeria’s progress and prosperity.
This post has already been read at least 11137 times!
About The Author
Discover more from The Street Reporters Newspaper
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
