Esther Oseyiomon
The Minister of Defence, Christopher Gwabin Musa, has called on Nigerian students to take a more active role in safeguarding the nation’s security, stressing that the responsibility for national unity extends beyond government institutions.
Musa made the appeal on Monday, May 4, 2026, while addressing students from the Department of Political Science and Diplomacy at Veritas University during an educational visit to the Ministry of Defence in Abuja.
He urged young Nigerians to remain vigilant and proactive, noting that timely reporting of suspicious activities is critical in the fight against insecurity.
“Students, as youths and future leaders, have a vital role to play in fighting insecurity. The nation’s unity is not for government alone; everyone has a role to play in ensuring peace and security,” he said.
The Minister highlighted ongoing efforts by the government to address key security challenges, including collaboration with relevant ministries to tackle technological gaps and food insecurity. He disclosed that the Ministry is working closely with the Ministries of Agriculture and Science and Technology to strengthen innovation and support mechanised farming using available land resources.
On defence production, Musa revealed that the government is integrating skilled Nigerian professionals into Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria to boost local manufacturing of military equipment, including drones. He noted that domestic production remains the most sustainable approach, especially amid global constraints affecting arms procurement.
He also advised students to steer clear of cybercrime and instead channel their creativity into productive ventures that contribute to national development. According to him, discipline and resilience—qualities often instilled through military training—are essential for personal and national growth.
“Military training is not punishment. It builds resilience, discipline, and a broader perspective on life,” he added.
Speaking on Nigeria’s international partnerships, the Minister pointed to growing collaboration with Turkey, noting that Nigeria is leveraging Turkey’s decades-long experience in counter-terrorism to strengthen its own security framework.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Richard Pheelangwah, said the visit was designed to provide students with practical insight into Nigeria’s defence architecture and expose them to career opportunities in strategic studies and national security.
The visiting students described the engagement as enlightening, noting that it deepened their understanding of the Ministry’s role in maintaining peace, stability, and national development.
The event was attended by senior officials and directors within the Ministry, reinforcing ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between policy institutions and the next generation of leaders.