By Nkechi Eze
The Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), OFR, has urged Nigerian students to take a proactive role in supporting national security efforts, stressing that the responsibility of safeguarding the nation rests on all citizens.
According to an official signed statement by the Chief Information Officer, Queenet Ihuoma Hart, the Defence Minister made the call on Monday, 4 May 2026, while addressing students from the Department of Political Science and Diplomacy of Veritas University, Abuja, during an educational visit to the Ministry of Defence.
General Musa emphasized that students, as emerging leaders, must remain vigilant and contribute meaningfully to the fight against insecurity by providing timely information to relevant authorities. He noted that national unity and security cannot be left solely in the hands of government institutions.
“Students, as youths and future leaders, have a vital role to play in fighting insecurity. See and report everything happening around you. The nation’s unity is not for government alone; everyone has a role to play in the peace and security of the nation,” he stated.
The Minister also addressed questions from the students on issues including technological gaps, food security, human security, and Nigeria’s recent Memorandum of Understanding with Turkey. He disclosed that the Ministry is strengthening collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, as well as the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, to tackle technological deficiencies and boost national capacity.
General Musa further revealed that the Ministry is leveraging its land assets to support mechanised agriculture as part of broader efforts to enhance food security. On defence production, he explained that skilled Nigerian professionals are being integrated into the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) to drive local manufacturing of military hardware, including unmanned aerial vehicles.
He maintained that local production remains the most viable and sustainable solution to equipment shortages, particularly in light of global procurement challenges linked to ongoing geopolitical tensions, including the Iran crisis.
The Defence Minister cautioned students against involvement in cybercrime, urging them instead to channel their talents into productive ventures that contribute to national development. He also advocated broader access to military training, noting that such exposure fosters discipline, resilience, and a well-rounded perspective on life.
“Military training is not punishment. It challenges you, expands your view about life, and builds resilience. Too much comfort can stifle creativity and leave people unchallenged,” he added.
On Nigeria’s defence cooperation with Turkey, General Musa observed that Turkey’s extensive experience in counterterrorism spanning over four decades presents valuable opportunities for Nigeria to adopt proven strategies and technological solutions.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, welcomed the 54 students and their lecturer, stating that the visit was aimed at providing practical insights into Nigeria’s defence architecture as well as guiding students interested in careers in strategic studies, intelligence, and national security.
In a remark on behalf of the delegation, the group leader described the visit as highly enlightening, noting that it deepened their understanding of the Ministry’s pivotal role in maintaining peace, stability, and national development.
Senior directors of the Ministry and members of the press were in attendance at the event.
