By
Shekara Anthony
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, says Nigeria’s university system is critical to strengthening national defence and building long term strategic resilience.
He made this known while delivering a 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.
The Defence Minister noted that the nature of modern security threats has evolved significantly, with terrorism, cyber warfare and other asymmetric challenges reshaping national defence in the 21st century.
Retired General Christopher Musa, in a statement by the Chief Information Officer, Ministry of Defence, Queeneth Ihuoma-Hart, explains that addressing these threats requires a knowledge-driven approach anchored in education, innovation, technology and human capacity development.
According to General Musa, national defence is no longer the sole responsibility of the armed forces, but requires a whole-of-nation approach.
He stressed that universities play a strategic role in this effort by producing skilled manpower, advancing research and innovation, and promoting values that support national stability and cohesion.
He further called for stronger collaboration between the defence sector, government and academic institutions to effectively respond to emerging security challenges.
The Minister also highlighted the need for sustained investment in education and the alignment of academic programmes with national priorities, particularly in areas such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and data systems.
General Musa charged graduating students to embrace their roles as future leaders and nation builders.
He urged them to uphold discipline, pursue innovation and demonstrate a strong sense of duty in contributing to Nigeria’s stability, progress and prosperity.
