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The Federal Government has taken a decisive step to strengthen Nigeria’s defence architecture and improve the welfare of military veterans with the inauguration of three high-level technical committees by the Ministry of Defence.
The country’s Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (retd), on Wednesday formally inaugurated the committees at the Ministry’s headquarters, Ship House, Abuja, underscoring the government’s resolve to transition “from policy intentions to actionable implementation” in addressing critical national security priorities.
The committees include the Technical Committee on Integrated Border Security System, the Defence Sector Capital Requirements Plan Committee, and the Committee on Veterans Welfare and Institutional Reform.
General Musa said the initiative reflects a “deliberate and coordinated effort” to tackle evolving security challenges, enhance operational readiness, and ensure that retired personnel receive the dignity and support they deserve. He noted that the inauguration is designed to bring renewed focus to practical solutions that will strengthen institutional frameworks and deliver measurable outcomes.
On border security, the Minister highlighted the complexity of Nigeria’s land and maritime boundaries, stressing the need for a “coordinated, smart, intelligence-driven, and technology-enabled approach.” He tasked the Technical Committee on Integrated Border Security System with conducting a comprehensive review of existing frameworks, identifying operational gaps, and proposing an integrated system that guarantees interoperability, real-time information sharing, and effective inter-agency collaboration. 
Addressing the Defence Sector Capital Requirements Plan Committee, General Musa emphasized the importance of long-term investment planning to sustain a capable and responsive Armed Forces. He directed the committee to develop a realistic and prioritised five-to-ten-year capital investment framework aligned with national security objectives and fiscal realities. The plan, he said, should assess existing infrastructure, identify capability gaps, and project future requirements in line with emerging threats and technological advancements.
On veterans’ welfare, the Minister underscored the need to preserve the dignity, identity, and well-being of former service personnel. He said the Committee on Veterans Welfare and Institutional Reform would focus on strengthening welfare systems, improving access to support services, and introducing a standardized national dress code for veterans. According to him, the initiative is intended to “promote uniformity, restore dignity, and align Nigeria’s practices with global standards while reflecting national identity and military heritage.”
General Musa charged members of the committees to discharge their responsibilities with professionalism, diligence, and a strong sense of national duty. He stressed the importance of stakeholder engagement, transparency, accountability, and value for money in delivering practical and implementable recommendations.
All three committees have been given a one-month deadline to submit comprehensive reports, including actionable recommendations and clear implementation roadmaps. The Ministry assured them of full institutional support to facilitate the successful execution of their mandates.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, commended the Minister for his commitment to advancing national security and improving personnel welfare. He assured that the Ministry’s leadership remains resolute in supporting officers and veterans, urging committee members to regard their assignments as a call to national service and carry them out with patriotism.
The inauguration marks a significant milestone in the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to modernise Nigeria’s defence and security framework, strengthen institutional coordination, and enhance national resilience.
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